18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.74 percent of the residents in 18463 has some form of health insurance. 47.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.48 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 18463 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18463. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 90 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,914 health care providers accessible to residents in 18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 18463 and Primary Care in Sterling

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within ZIP Code 18463, which encompasses Sterling, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider factors directly impacting asthma management, including physician availability, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis will culminate in an assessment of the overall “Asthma Score” for the region, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Sterling, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Accurate data on this ratio requires ongoing monitoring. However, based on publicly available information and anecdotal reports, the area may experience a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. This scarcity can disproportionately affect asthma sufferers, who require regular check-ups and timely interventions to manage their condition effectively.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Assessing the “Asthma Score” necessitates evaluating the practices of local physicians. This includes examining their adherence to national asthma guidelines, their use of spirometry and other diagnostic tools, and their patient education practices. Some practices might stand out for their proactive approach, such as offering asthma action plans, providing education on environmental triggers, and coordinating care with pulmonologists and allergists. These practices would contribute positively to the overall “Asthma Score.” Conversely, practices lacking these elements would negatively impact the score.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in Sterling. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with their physicians remotely. This is especially beneficial for individuals with asthma, who may require frequent monitoring of their symptoms and adjustments to their medication regimens. Telemedicine platforms can also facilitate remote monitoring of peak flow rates and other vital signs, enabling physicians to identify potential exacerbations early and intervene proactively. The degree to which local practices have embraced telemedicine will significantly influence the “Asthma Score.”

Another crucial aspect of asthma management is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma is often associated with anxiety and depression, which can worsen symptoms and negatively impact quality of life. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is essential for comprehensive asthma care. The “Asthma Score” should reflect the extent to which local healthcare providers collaborate with mental health professionals and offer resources to address the psychological aspects of asthma.

Furthermore, we must consider the availability of specialized care. While primary care forms the cornerstone of asthma management, access to pulmonologists and allergists is crucial for patients with complex or severe asthma. The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can access their services will impact the “Asthma Score.” The presence of local pharmacies that stock asthma medications and provide patient education on proper inhaler technique also contributes to the overall score.

Environmental factors also play a role. Sterling, like any community, has its own unique environmental landscape. The presence of allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites can trigger asthma attacks. The availability of resources to address these environmental triggers, such as information on local air quality and guidance on allergen avoidance, will influence the “Asthma Score.” Local initiatives promoting clean air and healthy homes also positively contribute.

The “Asthma Score” is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that must be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. It should incorporate various data points, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive approach allows for a more accurate and nuanced evaluation of the quality of asthma care in Sterling.

The evaluation of the local practices should include a review of their websites and online presence. The availability of educational materials, patient portals, and online appointment scheduling tools can improve access to care and enhance the patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient communication and provide easily accessible information will contribute positively to the “Asthma Score.”

In conclusion, assessing the “Asthma Score” for ZIP Code 18463 requires a thorough examination of various factors, including physician availability, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the quality of primary care. The score should be a reflection of the comprehensive approach to asthma management in the region, and the availability of resources and services that support the well-being of asthma sufferers.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sterling and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, helping to identify areas with limited access to care and highlighting opportunities for improvement.