18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.17 percent of the residents in 18706 has some form of health insurance. 51.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.99 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 18706 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,622 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18706. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,080 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,835 health care providers accessible to residents in 18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on asthma care within the 18706 ZIP code, encompassing Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and assesses primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking asthma management.

Wilkes-Barre, a city in Luzerne County, faces healthcare challenges common to many areas, including physician shortages and access disparities. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, requires consistent medical attention, making the availability and quality of primary care a critical factor. The 18706 ZIP code, in particular, needs careful scrutiny.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. The national average often serves as a benchmark, but local realities can differ significantly. Determining the exact ratio within 18706 requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. Conversely, a higher ratio can indicate better access. Public health data, combined with local hospital and clinic records, is essential for accurate assessment.

Standout practices within the 18706 area are those demonstrating excellence in asthma management. These practices typically have a multidisciplinary approach, involving physicians, nurses, and respiratory therapists. They often prioritize patient education, empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively. Evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), are consistently followed. Practices that actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives are also likely to provide superior care. Reviews and testimonials from patients are valuable indicators of practice quality.

Telemedicine adoption is reshaping healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with access limitations. Telemedicine offers remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, potentially improving asthma control. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach and offer greater convenience for patients. Factors to consider include the availability of secure video platforms, the integration of remote monitoring devices, and the training of staff in telemedicine protocols. Telemedicine adoption rates vary, but practices with robust telemedicine programs can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially for those with transportation or mobility challenges.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive asthma care. The chronic nature of asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma management programs demonstrate a holistic approach. This may involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or educational programs addressing the psychological aspects of the disease. The integration of mental health services can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life.

Primary care availability in Wilkes-Barre, as a whole, significantly impacts asthma care. A robust primary care infrastructure ensures that patients have access to routine checkups, preventative care, and timely referrals to specialists. Factors such as the number of primary care physicians, the geographic distribution of clinics, and the acceptance of various insurance plans all influence availability. Areas with limited primary care access may experience poorer asthma control due to delayed diagnosis, infrequent follow-up appointments, and inadequate management of exacerbations.

Specific practices within 18706 should be evaluated for their asthma-specific services. This includes assessing the availability of spirometry testing, peak flow meters, and asthma action plans. Practices that offer specialized asthma education programs, such as asthma camps or support groups, are particularly valuable. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and coordinate care is another important factor. Practices that actively monitor patient outcomes and make data-driven improvements are likely to provide the best care.

The role of hospitals in asthma care cannot be overlooked. Hospitals in the Wilkes-Barre area provide emergency care for asthma exacerbations and offer specialized services, such as pulmonology consultations and respiratory therapy. Evaluating the hospital's emergency room wait times, the availability of asthma-specific protocols, and the coordination of care between the hospital and primary care practices is crucial. Hospitals that collaborate effectively with primary care physicians can improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital readmissions.

Insurance coverage plays a significant role in access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, are more accessible to a diverse patient population. Understanding the insurance landscape in the 18706 area is crucial for assessing the affordability of asthma care. Practices that offer financial assistance programs or work with patients to navigate insurance complexities can improve access to care.

The overall asthma score for doctors in ZIP Code 18706 is a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed. It takes into account physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of primary care. A higher score indicates better access, higher-quality care, and improved patient outcomes. The score is dynamic and should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of asthma care in Wilkes-Barre, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and visualize health disparities. Use CartoChrome to gain a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape in your community.