18644, Wyoming, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18644, Wyoming, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.11 percent of the residents in 18644 has some form of health insurance. 36.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.92 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 18644 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,577 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18644. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,735 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,083 health care providers accessible to residents in 18644, Wyoming, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18644 and Primary Care in Wyoming

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly for conditions like asthma, necessitates a nuanced understanding of the local landscape. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 18644, a specific geographic area, and the broader context of primary care availability in Wyoming, providing an "Asthma Score" assessment based on several key factors. This score isn't a single number but a composite understanding derived from physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for asthma management.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in the availability of providers. ZIP Code 18644, situated within Wyoming County, Pennsylvania, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: a potentially lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to urban centers. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population. This scarcity directly impacts access to timely appointments, follow-up care, and specialized asthma management. Wyoming, as a state, often reflects similar challenges in its rural areas. Long travel distances to specialists and primary care physicians can exacerbate asthma symptoms, particularly during exacerbations. The "Asthma Score" for access in 18644 and Wyoming would therefore be negatively impacted by these factors.

**Practice Characteristics and Asthma Management:**

The quality of care is as important as access. Examining the practices within 18644 and the surrounding region requires evaluating their asthma management protocols. Do practices adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Do they offer comprehensive asthma education for patients and their families? Are they equipped with spirometry and other diagnostic tools? Practices excelling in asthma management would incorporate personalized asthma action plans, regular symptom monitoring, and readily available medication refills. Those that don't, or that rely on outdated practices, would contribute to a lower "Asthma Score." This analysis also considers the availability of pediatricians and pulmonologists, crucial specialists for asthma care.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves recognizing those that go above and beyond standard care. This might include practices that have a dedicated asthma educator, offer evening or weekend appointments, or actively participate in community outreach programs related to asthma awareness. These practices contribute to a higher "Asthma Score" by demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive asthma management. Examining patient reviews, practice websites, and community feedback can reveal these exemplary practices. Such practices may also be more likely to collaborate with local schools and community organizations to provide asthma education and support.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine offers a crucial solution to access challenges, particularly in rural areas like Wyoming and the potentially underserved areas within 18644. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in the region directly impacts the "Asthma Score." Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and medication management through telehealth platforms receive a higher score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and urgent care needs without traveling long distances. However, the availability of reliable internet access, particularly in rural areas, can limit the effectiveness of telemedicine.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of the "Asthma Score." Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their asthma care protocols contribute to a higher score. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing holistic care. Areas with limited mental health resources would negatively impact the "Asthma Score."

**Specific Considerations for 18644 and Wyoming:**

The "Asthma Score" for 18644 and Wyoming would be heavily influenced by the specific demographics of the region. Factors such as the prevalence of environmental triggers (e.g., pollen, air quality), socioeconomic factors, and access to insurance coverage would all play a role. A high rate of poverty or lack of health insurance can significantly limit access to care and medication, leading to poorer asthma control and a lower score. The availability of public transportation, crucial for accessing medical appointments, also needs consideration.

**Conclusion:**

Developing a comprehensive "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 18644 and primary care availability in Wyoming requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis highlights the importance of considering both access to care and the quality of care provided. Understanding these factors allows for targeted interventions to improve asthma management and patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of these healthcare dynamics, including the geographic distribution of providers, access to resources, and other relevant data points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing complex healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18644 and Wyoming.