18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.39 percent of the residents in 18705 has some form of health insurance. 43.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.54 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 18705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,167 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18705. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,990 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,985 health care providers accessible to residents in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

Asthma management, a critical aspect of public health, demands a comprehensive understanding of local resources and physician capabilities. This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP Code 18705, encompassing Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources – all crucial components of a comprehensive asthma score.

The initial challenge lies in accurately assessing physician-to-patient ratios. Publicly available data, such as that from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), provides a general overview but often lacks the granular detail required for a precise analysis at the ZIP code level. Data aggregation from insurance providers, combined with information gleaned from physician directories and practice websites, is essential. This process reveals the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists (pulmonologists, allergists) actively practicing within 18705. The ideal scenario involves a robust PCP network acting as the first line of defense, coupled with readily accessible specialists for complex cases. A high patient-to-physician ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and a less personalized approach to care.

Primary care availability in Wilkes Barre is a cornerstone of effective asthma management. The presence of a strong primary care foundation is crucial. PCPs, with their comprehensive understanding of a patient's medical history, are often the first point of contact for asthma diagnosis and initial treatment plans. They play a vital role in patient education, medication management, and ongoing monitoring of asthma control. The analysis will examine the distribution of PCPs across the ZIP code, noting the accessibility of practices, including factors like proximity to public transportation, parking availability, and practice hours.

Standout practices within 18705 are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care. This includes practices that actively implement evidence-based guidelines, offer patient education programs, and utilize advanced diagnostic tools. The analysis will identify practices that have a dedicated asthma clinic, or a designated asthma educator. The presence of certified asthma educators (CAEs) within a practice is a significant indicator of a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives often demonstrate a higher level of care.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in 18705 utilize telemedicine for asthma management. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function (through devices like peak flow meters), and medication refills. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce the need for frequent office visits, and enhance patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care.

The crucial, often overlooked, component of asthma management is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma, as a chronic respiratory condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common comorbidities. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within 18705, including the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or readily accessible referral networks. A collaborative approach, where PCPs and specialists work closely with mental health professionals, is crucial for holistic asthma care.

The evaluation of asthma care within 18705 also necessitates an understanding of socioeconomic factors. Asthma disproportionately affects certain populations, including those with lower incomes, limited access to healthcare, and exposure to environmental triggers. The analysis will consider the demographics of the ZIP code, identifying potential disparities in asthma prevalence and access to care. Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions, such as community outreach programs, financial assistance for medications, and efforts to reduce environmental triggers in vulnerable communities.

The overall asthma score for 18705 will be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Each component will be weighted based on its relative importance in achieving optimal asthma control. The score will provide a snapshot of the current state of asthma care in the ZIP code, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to develop strategies to enhance asthma care and improve patient outcomes.

This analysis will also consider the availability of specific asthma medications and devices within the local pharmacies. The ease of access to essential medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and rescue inhalers, is a critical factor in asthma management. The analysis will assess the proximity of pharmacies to practices and patients, and the availability of patient assistance programs for those who struggle to afford their medications.

The environmental factors within 18705, such as air quality and the prevalence of allergens, will also be considered. The analysis will incorporate data on local air quality, pollen counts, and other environmental triggers that can exacerbate asthma symptoms. This information can be used to educate patients about environmental control measures and to tailor treatment plans to their specific needs.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care within 18705 requires a multifaceted approach, considering various factors that influence patient outcomes. This comprehensive analysis provides a valuable assessment of the current state of asthma care in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. The findings can inform efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve the lives of individuals living with asthma.

Ready to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the asthma care landscape in 18705? Explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. Uncover the geographical distribution of resources, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions to improve asthma care in your community.