18508, Scranton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18508, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.03 percent of the residents in 18508 has some form of health insurance. 49.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.07 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 18508 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,355 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18508. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,022 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,015 health care providers accessible to residents in 18508, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below evaluates the quality of asthma care and primary care accessibility in Scranton, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18508 ZIP code. This assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effective asthma management.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, requires consistent and comprehensive care. The effectiveness of this care is heavily influenced by the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), who often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients. In Scranton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma management interventions. This can result in poorer asthma control, increased emergency room visits, and a diminished quality of life for patients. The 18508 ZIP code, like other areas, needs to be evaluated to understand the physician density and its impact on asthma patients.

Standout practices in the 18508 area should be identified based on their commitment to asthma care. This includes evaluating their adherence to national asthma guidelines, the use of evidence-based treatment plans, and their proactive approach to patient education. These practices often employ specialized staff, such as asthma educators or respiratory therapists, to provide comprehensive support. They may also have established systems for regular asthma control assessments, medication adjustments, and the development of personalized asthma action plans. These plans are crucial for patients to understand their triggers, manage symptoms, and respond appropriately to exacerbations.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a vital tool for improving asthma care, especially in areas with limited access to in-person appointments. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education. It can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in geographically remote areas, or those needing frequent follow-ups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer more convenient and timely care, leading to improved asthma control and reduced healthcare costs. The effectiveness of telemedicine, however, depends on the availability of reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Effective asthma management requires addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the disease. Practices that offer or collaborate with mental health professionals can provide comprehensive care, addressing the emotional challenges associated with asthma. This integrated approach can lead to improved adherence to treatment plans, better asthma control, and enhanced overall well-being.

Primary care availability in Scranton is a crucial factor in determining the overall quality of asthma care. The ability of patients to access timely and appropriate primary care services is essential for effective asthma management. This includes the availability of PCPs, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the ability of patients to receive follow-up care. Areas with limited primary care access may face challenges in providing comprehensive asthma care. The 18508 ZIP code should be examined for the availability of primary care, including the number of PCPs, the average wait times for appointments, and the accessibility of after-hours care.

The analysis of asthma care in the 18508 ZIP code must also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence asthma outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and environmental factors can disproportionately affect asthma patients. Areas with high levels of poverty may have limited access to healthcare, poor housing conditions, and exposure to environmental triggers, such as mold and allergens. These factors can exacerbate asthma symptoms and lead to poorer health outcomes. Understanding these socioeconomic factors is essential for developing targeted interventions to improve asthma care in the 18508 area.

Assessing the quality of asthma care requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating the availability of PCPs, the adherence to national asthma guidelines, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the consideration of socioeconomic factors. By conducting a thorough analysis of these factors, it is possible to identify areas of strength and weakness in asthma care within the 18508 ZIP code. This information can then be used to develop targeted interventions to improve asthma outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients.

The evaluation of the 18508 ZIP code requires a detailed examination of the healthcare landscape. This includes identifying the number of PCPs and specialists, evaluating the availability of telemedicine services, and assessing the integration of mental health resources. This information can then be used to develop a comprehensive asthma score, which reflects the overall quality of asthma care in the area. This score can be used to compare the 18508 ZIP code with other areas, identify best practices, and inform the development of targeted interventions to improve asthma outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the role of community resources in asthma management. This includes the availability of asthma education programs, support groups, and resources for patients and their families. Community-based programs can play a vital role in empowering patients to manage their asthma effectively. These programs can provide education on asthma triggers, medication management, and symptom control. They can also offer support and encouragement to patients and their families, helping them cope with the challenges of living with asthma.

Finally, the analysis should consider the ongoing efforts to improve asthma care in Scranton. This includes initiatives to increase access to primary care, promote the adoption of telemedicine, and integrate mental health services. It also includes efforts to educate patients and healthcare providers about asthma management. By staying informed about these ongoing efforts, it is possible to assess the progress being made in improving asthma care in the 18508 ZIP code.

Want to visually explore the healthcare landscape of Scranton, including physician locations, telemedicine availability, and primary care accessibility? Click here to view the data on CartoChrome maps.