18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.44 percent of the residents in 18702 has some form of health insurance. 45.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.29 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 18702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,062 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18702. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,408 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,893 health care providers accessible to residents in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below aims to provide a nuanced understanding of asthma care within the ZIP code 18702, encompassing Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. We will evaluate the landscape of primary care physicians, their accessibility, and the resources available for managing asthma, including telemedicine and mental health support. This assessment is crucial for residents seeking effective asthma management and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Wilkes-Barre (ZIP code 18702), the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a key factor in determining the ease with which asthma patients can secure timely appointments and ongoing care. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access. However, simply counting physicians is insufficient. The distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code, their acceptance of new patients, and their specialization in asthma management are also critical considerations.

Standout practices in the area often distinguish themselves through a combination of factors. These include a patient-centered approach, comprehensive asthma education programs, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in asthma treatment. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, enabling seamless communication between specialists and primary care providers, are particularly valuable. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about asthma triggers and management strategies deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is reshaping healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. In the context of 18702, the availability of telemedicine services from primary care physicians and pulmonologists is a significant advantage. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and symptom monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically underserved areas. The ease of access to these services and the quality of the telehealth experience are important factors.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as integral to comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer or readily refer patients to mental health professionals specializing in chronic illness management demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The integration of mental health services into asthma management plans can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Evaluating the primary care availability in Wilkes-Barre requires a multi-faceted approach. Beyond the raw physician-to-patient ratio, factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and the availability of after-hours care are crucial. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or on-call services enhance accessibility. Furthermore, the ability to communicate effectively with patients in their preferred language and the cultural sensitivity of healthcare providers are essential for fostering trust and improving patient adherence to treatment plans.

Specific practices within the 18702 ZIP code should be evaluated based on their adherence to national asthma guidelines. This includes the provision of individualized asthma action plans, regular spirometry testing, and the education of patients on proper inhaler technique. Practices that proactively monitor patient asthma control and adjust treatment plans accordingly are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a strong indicator of a commitment to patient education and self-management.

The adoption of technology beyond telemedicine, such as patient portals and mobile apps, can further enhance asthma management. Patient portals allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their healthcare providers, and request prescription refills. Mobile apps can provide tools for tracking symptoms, medication adherence, and environmental triggers. Practices that embrace these technologies demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care.

Assessing the effectiveness of asthma care also involves evaluating patient satisfaction. Patient surveys and online reviews provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by individual practices. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from their patients, particularly regarding communication, empathy, and the effectiveness of treatment, are likely to be leading providers in the area.

The integration of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, into the care network is also a critical component of asthma management. Patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require specialized care. Practices that have strong referral networks with pulmonologists and allergists can ensure that patients receive the appropriate level of care. The ease of communication and collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists is also important.

The availability of asthma-specific support groups and educational programs within the community can further enhance patient care. These resources provide patients with opportunities to connect with others who have asthma, share experiences, and learn coping strategies. Practices that actively promote and support these community resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic asthma management.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of asthma care in Wilkes-Barre (ZIP code 18702) is a complex issue. It depends on a variety of factors, including the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the level of community support. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that asthma patients receive the best possible care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilkes-Barre, including physician locations, primary care availability, and the distribution of asthma resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high or low access to care and gain insights into the distribution of healthcare resources within the community.