18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.05 percent of the residents in 18512 has some form of health insurance. 37.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.82 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 18512 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,636 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18512. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,358 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,014 health care providers accessible to residents in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

This analysis examines asthma care quality and primary care accessibility within Scranton, Pennsylvania's 18512 ZIP code. It assesses physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, culminating in a call to action for utilizing advanced mapping tools. This is not a direct "Asthma Score" but an analysis of factors impacting asthma care.

The foundation of asthma management relies heavily on access to qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). In Scranton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall availability of PCPs in the 18512 ZIP code and the broader Scranton area is a key determinant of asthma care quality. Lower ratios, signifying fewer doctors per patient, can lead to appointment delays, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, inadequate asthma control. Conversely, higher ratios, indicating greater physician availability, usually allow for more comprehensive care.

Within the 18512 ZIP code, identifying standout practices is essential. These practices likely exhibit several characteristics that contribute to better asthma management. They may prioritize patient education, offering comprehensive asthma action plans and training on inhaler techniques. They probably have robust systems for regular follow-up appointments, allowing for ongoing monitoring of asthma control and timely adjustments to treatment plans. These practices may also have dedicated staff, such as asthma educators or respiratory therapists, to provide specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption has dramatically changed healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with access challenges. The extent of telemedicine integration among primary care physicians in 18512 is a critical consideration. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those needing urgent care outside of regular office hours. Telemedicine can also facilitate more frequent check-ins, improving patient adherence to treatment plans and preventing asthma exacerbations.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health. Anxiety and depression can worsen asthma symptoms, and conversely, the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices is a significant factor. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, can provide more holistic care. This integrated approach allows for addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of asthma, leading to improved patient outcomes.

The specific practices within the 18512 ZIP code require individual assessment. Some may have established reputations for excellence in asthma care. Others may be newer, with innovative approaches to patient management. The presence of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists, even if not directly practicing primary care, is a beneficial factor. Their expertise can be leveraged through referrals and consultations, providing access to specialized care when needed.

The infrastructure of the healthcare system also impacts asthma care. The availability of pharmacies within the 18512 ZIP code is a critical factor. Easy access to medications, including inhalers and rescue medications, is essential for effective asthma management. Proximity to emergency rooms and urgent care facilities is also important, especially for patients who experience severe asthma exacerbations.

Primary care availability in Scranton is also affected by broader societal factors. Socioeconomic status, access to insurance, and health literacy all play roles in asthma control. Patients with lower socioeconomic status may face barriers to accessing care, such as transportation difficulties or the inability to afford medications. Health literacy, the ability to understand and act on health information, is also crucial. Patients with limited health literacy may struggle to follow treatment plans or recognize the early signs of an asthma exacerbation.

The quality of asthma care is also influenced by the use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs allow for better coordination of care, facilitating communication between different healthcare providers. They also enable practices to track patient outcomes, monitor medication adherence, and identify patients at risk for asthma exacerbations. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are often better equipped to provide comprehensive asthma management.

Patient feedback is also crucial. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by specific practices. Online platforms allow patients to share their experiences, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of different providers. These reviews can help prospective patients make informed decisions about their healthcare choices.

Finally, the commitment of primary care physicians to continuing medical education is a crucial factor. Asthma management is constantly evolving, with new treatments and guidelines emerging regularly. Physicians who stay current with the latest advancements in asthma care are better equipped to provide optimal care to their patients. This commitment to ongoing learning ensures that patients receive the most effective and up-to-date treatments.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 18512 ZIP code, visualizing the data is essential. Mapping tools can be incredibly helpful in this regard. They can show the geographic distribution of primary care physicians, pharmacies, and other healthcare resources. They can also map socioeconomic factors, such as poverty rates and access to transportation. By visualizing this data, we can identify areas where asthma care is most accessible and areas where access is limited.

To visualize the data and gain a comprehensive understanding of asthma care in the 18512 ZIP code and the broader Scranton area, explore the power of advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize and analyze healthcare data. Use CartoChrome maps to identify physician locations, assess resource distribution, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing asthma care quality in Scranton.