18602, Bear Creek, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18602, Bear Creek, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.94 percent of the residents in 18602 has some form of health insurance. 32.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.03 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 18602 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 144 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18602. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 72 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,843 health care providers accessible to residents in 18602, Bear Creek, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18602 & Primary Care in Bear Creek

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 18602, which encompasses Bear Creek, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis goes beyond simply counting doctors; it delves into physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in determining an “Asthma Score” for this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can create significant access barriers. Determining the exact ratio for 18602 requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, cross-referenced with physician directories. This data must be meticulously analyzed, differentiating between primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, and allergists. The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, is paramount for effective asthma management. Their availability directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely and specialized care. A scarcity of these specialists would negatively impact the Asthma Score.

Bear Creek, being a relatively small community, might present challenges in terms of physician density. The analysis must consider the geographic distribution of doctors within the ZIP code. Even if the overall ratio appears acceptable, a concentration of physicians in one area, leaving other parts of the community underserved, would lower the score. The analysis should also consider the proximity of hospitals and urgent care facilities, as these are critical for managing asthma exacerbations.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the experience and qualifications of the physicians, the range of services offered, and the patient satisfaction ratings. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and physician profiles can offer valuable insights. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and utilize evidence-based treatment guidelines would receive higher marks. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is particularly beneficial.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals enhance accessibility and convenience. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas like Bear Creek, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving medication adherence. The availability of telemedicine services would significantly boost a practice's Asthma Score.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is crucial for comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of these resources would positively influence the Asthma Score.

Assessing primary care availability in Bear Creek is closely intertwined with the overall Asthma Score. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients with asthma. Their ability to provide initial diagnoses, manage mild to moderate asthma, and refer patients to specialists is essential. The analysis should evaluate the number of PCPs in the area, their accessibility (including appointment availability and wait times), and their familiarity with asthma management guidelines. A shortage of PCPs or long wait times would negatively impact the score.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of resources for underserved populations. This includes assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of language services for non-English speaking patients, and the affordability of care. Practices that actively address health disparities and provide culturally competent care would receive higher ratings.

The Asthma Score for 18602 is not a static number; it is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and evolving best practices. The analysis should also consider the impact of external factors, such as public health initiatives and community resources. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and community outreach efforts would positively influence the overall score.

In conclusion, creating an accurate Asthma Score for 18602 requires a comprehensive assessment of multiple factors. It necessitates a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Primary care availability in Bear Creek is a critical component of this assessment. The final score should reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care in the area.

For a visual representation of the data and a dynamic mapping of healthcare resources in Bear Creek and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. Utilize CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.