18701, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18701, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.05 percent of the residents in 18701 has some form of health insurance. 29.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.79 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 18701 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 541 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18701. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 675 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,902 health care providers accessible to residents in 18701, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

The evaluation of asthma care within Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania's 18701 ZIP code necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care provided, the utilization of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the current state of asthma management in this area, moving beyond simple metrics to assess the overall patient experience.

Primary care physician (PCP) availability forms the foundation of asthma care. A robust PCP network allows for early detection, consistent monitoring, and effective management of the disease. The physician-to-patient ratio within 18701 is a crucial indicator. A high ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, a less personalized level of care. The availability of PCPs who specialize in pulmonology or have a particular interest in asthma management is another critical factor. These specialists can provide advanced diagnostic testing, specialized treatment plans, and access to clinical trials.

Several practices within the 18701 ZIP code might distinguish themselves through their dedication to asthma care. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing comprehensive information about asthma triggers, medication management, and self-care techniques, are particularly valuable. Practices that offer asthma action plans tailored to individual patients' needs are also highly commendable. These plans empower patients to proactively manage their condition and respond effectively to exacerbations. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, regularly reviewing patient outcomes and implementing evidence-based practices, demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant advancement in asthma care. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication refills, and monitoring of patients' symptoms. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those who require frequent follow-up appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access to care, reduce the burden on healthcare facilities, and enhance patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, that integrate with telemedicine platforms can further enhance the effectiveness of remote asthma management.

Mental health resources play a crucial role in asthma management. 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 holistic approach to patient well-being. This may involve providing on-site counseling services, referring patients to mental health professionals, or educating patients about the link between asthma and mental health. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions and provide appropriate support are particularly commendable.

The availability of specialized asthma clinics or centers of excellence within the 18701 ZIP code would significantly enhance the quality of care. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together pulmonologists, allergists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive asthma management. They may also offer specialized diagnostic testing, advanced treatment options, and access to clinical trials. The presence of such centers can improve patient outcomes and contribute to a higher overall standard of care.

Access to pharmacies that stock a wide range of asthma medications and provide convenient services, such as medication delivery and refill reminders, is also essential. Pharmacies that offer patient counseling on medication use and potential side effects can play a crucial role in improving patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of affordable asthma medications, including both brand-name and generic options, is another important consideration.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is essential for effective asthma management. EHRs allow for the seamless sharing of patient information among healthcare providers, improving communication and coordination of care. EHRs also facilitate the tracking of patient outcomes, the identification of trends, and the implementation of evidence-based practices. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can improve the quality and efficiency of asthma care.

The overall asthma score for doctors in the 18701 ZIP code and primary care availability in Wilkes-Barre is a complex assessment. It requires careful consideration of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized asthma clinics, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of patient education and support services. The practices that excel in these areas are likely to provide the highest quality of care and achieve the best patient outcomes.

Evaluating the current state of asthma care in 18701 reveals areas for potential improvement. While the availability of primary care physicians is a starting point, the quality of care, the utilization of technology, and the integration of mental health resources require further examination. Identifying practices that prioritize patient education, embrace telemedicine, and offer comprehensive support services is critical.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment that empowers patients to effectively manage their asthma and live fulfilling lives. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, pharmacies, patients, and the community as a whole. The development of a comprehensive asthma management program that addresses all aspects of the disease is essential.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within the 18701 ZIP code and surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a dynamic and informative visualization of healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape.