18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.59 percent of the residents in 18655 has some form of health insurance. 42.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.42 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 18655 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,007 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18655. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,327 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,217 health care providers accessible to residents in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on asthma care and primary care accessibility within the ZIP code 18655, encompassing Shickshinny, Pennsylvania. Assessing the quality of care involves a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare tools. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for asthma patients and those seeking primary care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. Unfortunately, precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to ascertain publicly. However, data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide estimates. These sources, when combined with information from local hospitals and clinics, offer insights into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, including pulmonologists who are vital in asthma management. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access and potentially improved patient outcomes. The availability of pediatricians is also critical, given the prevalence of asthma in children.

Shickshinny, being a rural area, often faces challenges related to healthcare access. This includes the geographical distance to specialists and hospitals, which can be a significant barrier for patients, particularly during asthma exacerbations. The presence of a well-equipped emergency room in a nearby hospital is essential for managing acute asthma attacks. The quality of emergency care, including the availability of respiratory therapists and appropriate medications, directly impacts patient survival and long-term health.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various factors. Practices that prioritize patient education about asthma triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques often demonstrate better patient outcomes. Practices that actively participate in asthma registries and quality improvement initiatives are also noteworthy. These registries allow for tracking patient progress and identifying areas for improvement in asthma care. Moreover, practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments enhance accessibility for patients with busy schedules.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical aspect of modern healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. For asthma patients, telemedicine can be used for routine check-ups, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies, such as video conferencing and remote monitoring devices, are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care. The availability of telehealth services, however, is dependent on factors such as internet access and patient technological literacy.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of asthma care, but they are essential. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs demonstrate a more holistic approach. This may involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or educational programs on managing stress and anxiety. Coordination between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is crucial for providing comprehensive care.

The analysis also considers the availability of ancillary services, such as respiratory therapy and pulmonary function testing. Respiratory therapists play a vital role in asthma management, providing education, administering treatments, and monitoring patients' respiratory function. Access to pulmonary function testing, such as spirometry, is essential for diagnosing and monitoring asthma. The availability of these services within the local healthcare system is a key indicator of the quality of asthma care.

The integration of technology in asthma management is another factor. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and communication between healthcare providers. EHRs allow for easy access to patient medical histories, medication lists, and allergy information. Furthermore, the use of mobile health (mHealth) apps can empower patients to track their symptoms, monitor their medication adherence, and communicate with their healthcare providers.

In the context of primary care availability, the presence of urgent care clinics can supplement the services offered by PCPs. Urgent care clinics provide convenient access to care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, including asthma exacerbations. The availability of urgent care clinics can reduce the burden on emergency rooms and improve access to care for patients who cannot wait for a PCP appointment.

Assessing the overall asthma score for doctors in 18655 requires synthesizing all these factors. A high score would indicate a healthcare system with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available specialists, a strong emphasis on patient education, the integration of telemedicine, and comprehensive mental health resources. It would also include easy access to ancillary services, such as respiratory therapy and pulmonary function testing, and the use of technology to improve care coordination. A low score would reflect the opposite, with limited access to care, a lack of resources, and a less patient-centered approach.

Ultimately, the quality of asthma care and primary care availability in Shickshinny is a dynamic situation. It is influenced by various factors, including population demographics, healthcare infrastructure, and the availability of funding. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

For a visual representation of healthcare accessibility in Shickshinny and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, interactive view of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a more informed understanding of the resources available.