18471, Waverly, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18471, Waverly, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18471 has some form of health insurance. 27.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.85 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 18471 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18471. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 116 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,555 health care providers accessible to residents in 18471, Waverly, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Waverly, PA (ZIP Code 18471)

Analyzing asthma care within Waverly, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18471) requires a multifaceted approach, evaluating not just the presence of physicians but also the accessibility, quality, and integration of resources. This analysis will assess the current landscape, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Asthma Score" perspective for the community.

The foundation of asthma care lies in accessible primary care. Waverly's primary care availability directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing management, and preventative care. Assessing this requires evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering factors like their patient load and acceptance of new patients. A high PCP-to-patient ratio, indicating a larger patient base per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed care, negatively impacting the "Asthma Score." Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better accessibility and improved opportunities for comprehensive asthma management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. Determining the exact ratio within 18471 requires careful research, but publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can offer estimates. This data must be cross-referenced with information from medical directories and insurance provider networks to identify active PCPs and their potential patient capacity. The proximity of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, is also essential. While PCPs often manage asthma, access to specialists for complex cases or exacerbations significantly improves patient outcomes. The availability of pediatricians is also vital, given the prevalence of asthma in children. A higher concentration of specialists and pediatricians would positively influence the "Asthma Score."

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond the raw numbers. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through specific programs, patient education initiatives, and adherence to national guidelines deserve recognition. These practices often implement comprehensive asthma action plans, provide regular patient education on triggers and medication management, and actively monitor patient outcomes. Practices that actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, facilitate communication, and improve care coordination would also be considered high-performing. A practice's commitment to patient communication, including the availability of after-hours support or online portals, also contributes to a positive "Asthma Score."

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. The ability to access virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring tools can significantly improve asthma management, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves identifying which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services provided (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the platforms used. Practices that actively integrate telemedicine into their asthma care plans, offering convenient and accessible options for patients, will contribute positively to the "Asthma Score." The availability of virtual asthma education programs would further enhance this score.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that recognize this and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration can involve partnerships with mental health professionals, screening for mental health conditions during routine appointments, and providing resources for patients struggling with the emotional impact of asthma. The presence of mental health resources would have a positive impact on the "Asthma Score."

Analyzing the existing resources requires a deep dive. This includes the availability of pharmacies with readily available asthma medications, the presence of community-based asthma education programs, and the accessibility of emergency services. The existence of support groups or patient advocacy organizations within the community also plays a vital role in empowering patients and improving their overall well-being. This comprehensive analysis would contribute significantly to the "Asthma Score."

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Waverly, PA (18471) would be a composite measure reflecting the various factors discussed above. It would be a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on improvements or declines in healthcare access, quality, and the integration of resources. It's not a single number but a reflection of the community's ability to provide comprehensive and effective asthma care. This analysis would require an in-depth data collection process, including surveys of local practices, patient interviews, and a review of publicly available health data.

The final "Asthma Score" would provide a valuable benchmark for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members. It would highlight areas of strength and identify opportunities for improvement. It would also serve as a tool for patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for better asthma management resources within their community.

To visualize and further understand the healthcare landscape of Waverly, PA (18471), including the location of practices, specialists, and other relevant resources, consider exploring interactive maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare accessibility, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the community's needs.

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