18461, Starlight, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18461, Starlight, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.01 percent of the residents in 18461 has some form of health insurance. 54.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.41 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 18461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18461. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 80 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 73 health care providers accessible to residents in 18461, Starlight, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below explores asthma care quality and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 18461, encompassing the community of Starlight, Pennsylvania. This assessment is designed to provide insight into the healthcare landscape for individuals managing asthma, considering factors such as physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of telehealth and mental health services. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the resources available and identify potential areas for improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Starlight, and specifically within the 18461 ZIP code, is a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for patients. Evaluating the ratio necessitates considering the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, and allergists serving the area, balanced against the estimated population and the prevalence of asthma. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can exacerbate the difficulties faced by asthma sufferers.

Primary care availability in Starlight is a cornerstone of asthma management. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, providing routine check-ups, medication prescriptions, and referrals to specialists. The geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are practices clustered in one area, potentially creating accessibility issues for those residing in more remote locations? The acceptance of new patients by these practices also influences accessibility. A practice that isn't accepting new patients limits choices and can delay necessary care.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into their operational characteristics. This includes assessing factors like appointment scheduling efficiency, the availability of after-hours care, and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that offer same-day appointments for urgent asthma-related issues, have extended hours, or utilize patient portals for communication and prescription refills demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience. Furthermore, practices that emphasize patient education, providing resources on asthma triggers, medication management, and self-care strategies, are crucial for empowering patients to effectively manage their condition.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend that can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Telehealth consultations allow patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially minimizing exposure to environmental triggers. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication adjustments, and asthma education, can be a significant benefit for patients in Starlight. The ease of use of the telehealth platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telehealth data into the patient's medical record are all important considerations.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can be a chronic condition that leads to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community, or through partnerships with local healthcare providers, is therefore essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can provide support and treatment for mental health conditions. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate services demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Analyzing the specific practices within the 18461 ZIP code requires gathering information on their services. This involves researching the practice's website, reviewing patient testimonials, and contacting the practices directly to inquire about their services. Questions to ask include: What is the average wait time for an appointment? Do they offer telehealth options? Do they have a dedicated asthma educator? Do they provide mental health screenings or referrals? This type of investigation provides a more complete picture of the quality of care available.

The assessment of asthma care quality must also consider the availability of specialized services. This includes access to pulmonologists, who are specialists in lung diseases, and allergists, who can help identify and manage asthma triggers. The proximity of these specialists to Starlight, and the ease with which patients can obtain referrals, are critical factors. The availability of diagnostic testing, such as pulmonary function tests, and the ability to provide personalized asthma action plans are also important indicators of quality care.

The success of asthma management depends not only on access to medical care but also on the patient's ability to understand and adhere to their treatment plan. This underscores the importance of patient education. Practices that provide comprehensive asthma education programs, including training on inhaler techniques, trigger avoidance, and emergency action plans, empower patients to take control of their condition. The use of educational materials, such as brochures, videos, and online resources, can further enhance patient understanding and adherence.

The overall assessment of asthma care in Starlight, PA, requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the accessibility of primary care, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The integration of these elements, coupled with a focus on patient education and empowerment, determines the quality of care available.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Starlight, PA, and to map the distribution of healthcare providers, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and informative view of the healthcare resources available, aiding in identifying areas of need and supporting informed decision-making.