18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.93 percent of the residents in 18603 has some form of health insurance. 41.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.26 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 18603 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,815 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18603. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,015 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 702 health care providers accessible to residents in 18603, Berwick, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Berwick, PA (ZIP Code 18603)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Berwick, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18603) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all factors impacting an "Asthma Score" for residents. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the landscape of care within this specific geographic area.

Berwick, a borough in Columbia County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential socioeconomic factors, can influence the availability of specialized medical services, including those crucial for managing asthma. An accurate "Asthma Score" must reflect these realities.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. Determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases, including asthma) per capita is essential. This data, ideally sourced from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar agencies, provides a baseline understanding of access. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for pulmonologists, would negatively impact the "Asthma Score," as it could lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. The availability of pediatricians, given the prevalence of asthma in children, is also a crucial consideration.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care offered by existing medical providers. This requires researching the practices' reputations, patient reviews, and the services they provide. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management, such as offering comprehensive asthma action plans, providing patient education, and utilizing evidence-based treatment guidelines, would contribute positively to the "Asthma Score." Factors like accreditation by relevant medical organizations (e.g., the National Committee for Quality Assurance) and participation in quality improvement programs are also important indicators.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care access, especially in rural areas. The "Asthma Score" should consider the availability of telehealth consultations with PCPs and pulmonologists. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve medication adherence through remote monitoring, and facilitate timely adjustments to treatment plans. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine technologies, such as video consultations and remote monitoring devices, would significantly enhance the "Asthma Score."

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as crucial in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Asthma can be exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, within the primary care setting or through referrals, is essential. The "Asthma Score" should reflect the presence of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide integrated care would positively influence the score.

Specific practices within Berwick need individual examination. Identifying the names and locations of PCPs and pulmonologists within the 18603 ZIP code is crucial. Researching their websites, reading patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, and contacting the practices directly to inquire about their asthma management protocols will provide detailed insights. Determining if these practices offer asthma education classes, provide peak flow meter training, or utilize electronic health records to track patient progress would further refine the analysis.

The presence of a local hospital or urgent care facility is another factor. The ability to quickly access emergency care during an asthma exacerbation is critical. The "Asthma Score" should account for the proximity of such facilities and their capacity to handle asthma-related emergencies. The availability of after-hours care options, like urgent care clinics, can also improve access to timely treatment.

The analysis should also consider the availability of asthma medications. Are there local pharmacies that consistently stock necessary inhalers and other asthma medications? Does the community have programs that assist patients with the cost of medications, especially for those with limited financial resources? Addressing medication access is a vital component of effective asthma management and, therefore, influences the "Asthma Score."

The "Asthma Score" for Berwick (18603) should be a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving healthcare practices, technological advancements, and community needs. Regular updates to the analysis are necessary to maintain its accuracy and relevance. This requires continuous monitoring of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Berwick, PA (18603) is a composite metric that considers the factors outlined above. It's not a single number but a reflection of the multifaceted healthcare landscape in the area. A higher score indicates better access to quality asthma care, while a lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed. The score is designed to inform both healthcare providers and residents about the state of asthma management in the community.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Berwick and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, access to care, and other relevant factors, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable tool for visualizing the data and gaining a deeper insight into the availability of asthma care in your community.