18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.82 percent of the residents in 18518 has some form of health insurance. 39.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.53 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 18518 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,765 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18518. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,806 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,982 health care providers accessible to residents in 18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses asthma care accessibility and quality for residents of Old Forge, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on physicians within the 18518 ZIP code. This evaluation considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial components of comprehensive asthma management.

Old Forge, a borough in Lackawanna County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. The success of asthma management relies heavily on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists. The ratio of physicians to the population is a fundamental metric. A higher ratio generally indicates better access to care, including routine check-ups, medication management, and referrals to pulmonologists if needed. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 18518 requires detailed data analysis, including the number of active, practicing physicians in the area, and the population demographics. This data isn't easily accessible, but is critical for a complete assessment.

Several medical practices in and around Old Forge likely play a significant role in asthma care. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their reputation, patient reviews, and the services they offer. Practices with board-certified pulmonologists, dedicated asthma clinics, or specialized programs for children with asthma would be considered highly desirable. The presence of certified asthma educators (CAEs) within a practice is another key indicator of quality care. CAEs provide crucial patient education on asthma triggers, medication usage, and self-management techniques, empowering patients to take control of their condition.

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in 18518 is a critical factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices offering virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and follow-up consultations demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, further enhances asthma management through proactive intervention.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the 18518 area is therefore essential. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. Integrated care models, where physicians and mental health providers collaborate, can improve patient outcomes. Access to support groups and educational programs on managing both asthma and mental health is also a positive indicator.

Assessing the availability of primary care in Old Forge requires a multi-faceted approach. Beyond physician-to-patient ratios, the hours of operation of local clinics, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of same-day appointments are all important considerations. Practices that offer extended hours, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and have efficient appointment scheduling systems are more accessible to the community. The presence of urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance is also crucial, providing timely care for asthma exacerbations that require immediate attention.

Evaluating the quality of asthma care in 18518 also involves examining the use of evidence-based guidelines. Physicians should be adhering to national asthma guidelines, such as those published by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). This includes using appropriate diagnostic tools, prescribing the correct medications, and regularly assessing patient control of their asthma. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and track patient outcomes demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible care.

Another factor to consider is the availability of specialized services, such as allergy testing and immunotherapy. Asthma is often triggered by allergies, and identifying and treating these allergies can significantly improve asthma control. Practices that offer comprehensive allergy testing and immunotherapy services eliminate the need for patients to travel to other locations for these essential services.

The presence of educational programs for patients and their families is another indicator of quality care. Asthma education empowers patients to manage their condition effectively, reducing the frequency of asthma exacerbations and improving their overall quality of life. Practices that offer asthma education classes, provide written materials, and utilize online resources demonstrate a commitment to patient education.

Finally, the overall patient experience is a critical factor. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, the communication style of the physicians and staff, and the overall cleanliness and comfort of the office environment. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and actively seek feedback from their patients are more likely to provide high-quality care.

While a comprehensive, data-driven analysis is beyond the scope of this summary, the key elements have been presented. Accessing and visualizing this data can be challenging. Consider using CartoChrome maps, a powerful tool that allows you to map and analyze healthcare data, providing a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare resources, and demographic information. This can help you to identify areas of need and make informed decisions about your healthcare.