18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.90 percent of the residents in 18504 has some form of health insurance. 45.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.27 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 18504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,938 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18504. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,595 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,026 health care providers accessible to residents in 18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of asthma care within the 18504 ZIP code, encompassing much of Scranton, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. It’s not simply about counting doctors; it involves evaluating the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies exemplary practices, assesses telemedicine integration, and examines the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of effective asthma management.

Scranton, like many urban areas, faces challenges related to healthcare access. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists within 18504 is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for asthma sufferers. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local healthcare networks would be essential to establish an accurate ratio. This data would then be compared to national averages to understand how Scranton compares to other areas.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the use of evidence-based asthma guidelines, the availability of asthma education programs for patients and their families, and the frequency of follow-up appointments. Practices that consistently demonstrate positive patient outcomes, measured by metrics like reduced hospitalizations and emergency room visits related to asthma, would be considered exemplary. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient communication, offering clear explanations of treatment plans and addressing patient concerns effectively, would also score favorably.

Telemedicine, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery. Its adoption within the 18504 ZIP code is a key factor in assessing asthma care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online access to patient portals demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and convenience. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, allowing for regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and proactive management of symptoms, potentially reducing the need for in-person visits.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health. The stress of managing a chronic condition, the fear of exacerbations, and the limitations asthma can impose on daily life can contribute to anxiety and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who understand the psychological impact of asthma. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma management programs, either through on-site providers or referrals to external resources, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

Specific practices within the 18504 ZIP code require individual scrutiny. While a comprehensive list is beyond the scope of this analysis, examples of practices that might be considered exemplary include those affiliated with Geisinger or Commonwealth Health Systems, both of which have a significant presence in Scranton. Each practice's website, patient reviews, and publicly available data would be examined to assess their performance in the areas outlined above. Factors like staff training in asthma management, the availability of specialized equipment (e.g., spirometry), and the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives would also be considered.

The analysis would also need to consider the demographics of the 18504 ZIP code. Factors such as socioeconomic status, race, and ethnicity can influence asthma prevalence and severity. Practices that are culturally competent and provide care that is sensitive to the needs of diverse populations would be prioritized. This includes offering multilingual services, providing educational materials in multiple languages, and addressing health disparities that may exist within the community.

Furthermore, the analysis should incorporate a review of local resources. This includes identifying community-based organizations that provide asthma education, support groups, and other services. Collaborations between healthcare providers and these organizations can enhance the overall quality of care and improve patient outcomes. The availability of affordable medication and access to public health programs that support asthma management are also important considerations.

The assessment of primary care availability in Scranton requires a broader perspective. While the 18504 ZIP code is a focal point, the overall healthcare landscape of the city must be considered. This involves evaluating the distribution of PCPs across different neighborhoods, the availability of after-hours care, and the ease of access to specialists, including pulmonologists and allergists. The presence of urgent care clinics and emergency rooms within the city is also relevant, as these facilities often serve as a first point of contact for asthma exacerbations.

The data gathered from these various sources would be synthesized to create an “Asthma Score” for the 18504 ZIP code. This score would be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would provide a snapshot of the current state of asthma care in the area and identify areas for improvement. This score could be used to inform policy decisions, guide healthcare providers in their efforts to improve care, and empower patients to make informed choices about their healthcare.

The analysis would not be static; it would be an ongoing process, requiring regular updates and revisions. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare policies emerging. Staying abreast of these changes is essential to ensure that the "Asthma Score" remains accurate and relevant.

This detailed analysis, incorporating various data points and a comprehensive review of local resources, will provide a robust understanding of asthma care within the 18504 ZIP code and the broader Scranton area. The ultimate goal is to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, ultimately leading to better outcomes for individuals living with asthma.

To visualize this complex data and gain a dynamic understanding of healthcare access and asthma care in Scranton, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic visualization. Use CartoChrome maps to visually represent physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources within the 18504 ZIP code and beyond. CartoChrome maps can help you see the relationships between these factors and identify areas where improvements are most needed.