18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.50 percent of the residents in 18704 has some form of health insurance. 44.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.22 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 18704 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,311 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18704. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,714 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,982 health care providers accessible to residents in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Kingston, PA (ZIP Code 18704)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Kingston, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18704) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all factors influencing an "Asthma Score" for the area. This score reflects the ease with which residents can access comprehensive and effective asthma management.

Kingston, a borough within Luzerne County, faces challenges common to many communities. Access to specialized medical care, including pulmonologists and allergists, is a critical element in managing asthma effectively. The physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of accessibility, provides insight into the potential for timely appointments and personalized care. In 18704, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts asthma management. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnosis, medication management, and referrals to specialists when necessary.

The density of PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas is crucial. A higher density, ideally, translates to shorter wait times for appointments and increased opportunities for regular check-ups. Conversely, a low PCP density can lead to delayed care, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing the risk of hospitalizations. The ratio of pulmonologists and allergists to the population is equally important. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose complex cases, adjust treatment plans, and provide advanced therapies.

Identifying standout practices is essential to understanding the quality of care available. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management often incorporate several key elements. These include: adherence to national guidelines for asthma treatment, patient education programs, proactive monitoring of asthma control, and a multidisciplinary approach involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals. These practices often invest in advanced diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, and maintain robust electronic health records systems to facilitate efficient care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve asthma care accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater flexibility and convenience for patients, leading to improved adherence to treatment plans and better asthma control. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as a vital component of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either in-house or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integration can involve screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling services, and coordinating care with mental health professionals.

Evaluating the Asthma Score for 18704 requires considering the interplay of all these factors. A high score would reflect a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would indicate challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to poorer asthma control and increased healthcare costs.

Specific data points are needed to accurately assess the Asthma Score. Analyzing the number of PCPs, pulmonologists, and allergists practicing within 18704 and the surrounding areas provides a baseline. Investigating the presence of patient education programs, the use of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health services within local practices adds further depth. Publicly available data from organizations like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can provide additional insights into asthma prevalence and related health outcomes in the region.

Furthermore, understanding the demographics of the population in 18704 is crucial. Factors like socioeconomic status, race, and ethnicity can influence asthma prevalence and access to care. Targeting resources and interventions based on these demographic factors can help address health disparities and improve asthma outcomes for all residents.

The assessment of the Asthma Score should be an ongoing process. Regularly monitoring key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and patient satisfaction, allows for continuous improvement. This iterative approach ensures that the community is providing the best possible care for individuals living with asthma.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for Kingston, PA (ZIP Code 18704) is a complex metric influenced by numerous interconnected factors. A comprehensive analysis requires a thorough investigation of physician availability, the presence of high-quality practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment is essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents have access to the care they need to effectively manage their asthma and live healthy lives.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and related health outcomes in Kingston and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of data visualization tools. CartoChrome maps can help you gain a deeper understanding of the community and its healthcare landscape.