18629, Mehoopany, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18629, Mehoopany, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.46 percent of the residents in 18629 has some form of health insurance. 44.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.01 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 18629 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 344 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18629. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 500 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 661 health care providers accessible to residents in 18629, Mehoopany, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of asthma care and primary care availability in Mehoopany, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18629) necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering the unique challenges of a rural setting. We'll examine the landscape of healthcare providers, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all contributing factors to an "Asthma Score" assessment. This score, though not a formal, standardized metric, represents a qualitative evaluation of the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing asthma within this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Mehoopany and surrounding areas is a critical starting point. Rural communities often grapple with a shortage of healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists like pulmonologists and allergists, crucial for asthma management. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer asthma control. Research into the specific ratio within 18629 and neighboring ZIP codes is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into primary care access. Furthermore, analyzing the number of pulmonologists and allergists serving the area, and their patient load, is vital. This initial assessment forms the foundation for understanding the overall capacity of the healthcare system to address asthma needs.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. This involves investigating the reputation and performance of existing medical facilities. Are there any primary care practices or specialty clinics that consistently receive positive patient reviews? Do they demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through evidence-based protocols, patient education, and regular follow-up? Consider practices that are recognized for their patient-centered approach, their ability to manage complex cases, and their dedication to providing comprehensive asthma care. This includes examining the availability of asthma action plans, regular spirometry testing, and education on proper inhaler technique. Furthermore, assessing whether these practices participate in quality improvement initiatives related to asthma management is important.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to address geographical barriers to care, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive medication refills, and participate in educational programs. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among providers in 18629 is essential. Are primary care practices and specialists offering virtual consultations? Are they utilizing remote monitoring devices to track patient symptoms and medication adherence? Examining the availability of telehealth platforms and the accessibility of these services for patients with limited internet access is also critical. The effective implementation of telemedicine can significantly improve asthma management by providing timely access to care and reducing the burden of travel for patients.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial element of asthma care. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively affect treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare ecosystem is vital. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists, who are familiar with the challenges faced by asthma patients. Are these professionals integrated into the primary care setting? Do they collaborate with pulmonologists and allergists to provide comprehensive care? Examining the availability of support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing stress and anxiety is also important. Integrating mental health services into asthma management can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The "Asthma Score" for 18629 would be a composite assessment of these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources would negatively impact the score. Conversely, the presence of standout practices, robust telemedicine programs, and integrated mental health services would improve the score. The score would also reflect the availability of asthma-specific resources, such as patient education materials, support groups, and access to specialized asthma care. The goal is to provide a holistic evaluation of the healthcare landscape, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses.

To improve the "Asthma Score," several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting more physicians, particularly primary care physicians and specialists, is crucial. Expanding telemedicine services, particularly for remote monitoring and virtual consultations, can improve access to care. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices and specialty clinics can provide comprehensive support for patients. Promoting patient education and self-management skills can empower individuals to take control of their asthma. Collaborating with community organizations to raise awareness about asthma and available resources is also beneficial.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" is a dynamic measure that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that individuals with asthma receive the highest quality of care possible. The score can serve as a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to work together to address the challenges of asthma management in rural settings.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 18629, including the locations of healthcare providers, the accessibility of resources, and demographic data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and data-rich platform to visualize and analyze geographic information, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and its impact on the community.