18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 18519 has some form of health insurance. 44.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.35 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 18519 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,209 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18519. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,045 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,943 health care providers accessible to residents in 18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis will focus on asthma care quality and primary care accessibility within the 18519 ZIP code, encompassing Scranton, Pennsylvania. Assessing the landscape involves examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine integration, and exploring the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive asthma management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Scranton, specifically within the 18519 ZIP code, presents a complex picture. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend indicates a potential shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed asthma diagnosis and treatment. The impact is particularly pronounced for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma, who require regular monitoring and medication management. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, further influences the overall accessibility of asthma care. The geographic distribution of physicians within the ZIP code also matters; concentrated practices in certain areas may leave others underserved, exacerbating health disparities.

Standout practices in Scranton, within the 18519 ZIP code, are those that prioritize asthma management through a holistic approach. This includes practices that employ certified asthma educators who provide patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique. These practices often integrate spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing lung function, directly into their routine care. Moreover, practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, actively involving patients in treatment decisions, and providing culturally sensitive care, are highly regarded. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor, allowing for efficient communication between providers, improved medication management, and data-driven insights into patient outcomes. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, aiming to enhance asthma control rates and reduce hospitalizations, are also considered leaders in the field.

Telemedicine adoption in Scranton, 18519, has the potential to significantly improve asthma care accessibility, particularly for patients facing transportation challenges or those living in underserved areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The successful integration of telemedicine hinges on several factors, including patient access to technology (internet connectivity, smartphones), physician comfort and training in using telehealth platforms, and the availability of reimbursement for virtual visits. Telemedicine also facilitates remote asthma education and self-management training programs, empowering patients to take an active role in their care. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, and the types of telehealth services offered, are key indicators of the responsiveness to patient needs and the commitment to innovative care delivery models.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, component of asthma management. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals to specialists, is essential for addressing these issues. Integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work collaboratively with primary care physicians, can improve patient outcomes and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, provide brief interventions, and offer referrals to therapists and psychiatrists are better equipped to provide comprehensive asthma care. The integration of mental health resources into asthma management is particularly crucial for children and adolescents, who may be more vulnerable to the psychological effects of the disease.

The primary care availability in Scranton, 18519, is directly linked to asthma care accessibility. A robust primary care system, with sufficient physician capacity, is essential for providing timely diagnosis, initiating treatment, and coordinating care with specialists. The availability of after-hours care, weekend appointments, and same-day appointments further enhances accessibility. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, are particularly important for serving vulnerable populations. The presence of community health centers, which often provide affordable care and serve as a safety net for underserved individuals, also plays a crucial role. The degree to which primary care practices are integrated with local hospitals and specialists influences the continuity of care and the ability to effectively manage complex asthma cases.

The overall asthma score for doctors in the 18519 ZIP code is a composite measure of these various factors. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall accessibility of primary care. The score reflects the ability of the local healthcare system to effectively diagnose, treat, and manage asthma, ultimately impacting the quality of life for individuals living with this chronic condition. Addressing the identified gaps, such as physician shortages and limited access to mental health services, is crucial for improving the asthma score and ensuring that all residents of Scranton, 18519, have access to high-quality, comprehensive asthma care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Scranton, 18519, including the geographic distribution of physicians, access to care, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps provide a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.