The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 18818 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.47 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 18818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 230 health care providers accessible to residents in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania
Asthma Score | 36 |
---|---|
People Score | 73 |
Provider Score | 10 |
Hospital Score | 41 |
Travel Score | 49 |
18818 | Friendsville | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Asthma Score Analysis: Friendsville, PA (ZIP Code 18818)
Friendsville, Pennsylvania, a rural community nestled in the Endless Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when assessing asthma care. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 18818, focusing on factors crucial for managing asthma effectively. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of asthma management.
The foundation of effective asthma care rests upon accessible and competent primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Friendsville and surrounding areas is a critical metric. Rural communities often face a shortage of healthcare providers, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to specialized care. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally below the national average, indicates a greater availability of PCPs, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive asthma management. Conversely, a high ratio may necessitate longer waits and could potentially hinder the consistent monitoring and treatment essential for asthma control. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be essential to determine the precise ratio for 18818.
Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts asthma outcomes. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key elements. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, including asthma action plans and proper inhaler technique instruction, are highly valued. Furthermore, practices that routinely monitor lung function through spirometry and other diagnostic tools contribute to proactive asthma management. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for improved coordination of care and facilitates the sharing of patient information among specialists, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma management, evidenced by low rates of asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits, are considered exemplary.
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially in rural areas like Friendsville, where geographical barriers can limit access to healthcare. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their PCPs remotely for routine check-ups, medication refills, and symptom management. This can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, reducing the need for frequent travel and minimizing exposure to potential triggers. The adoption rate of telemedicine among PCPs in 18818 is a key indicator of accessibility. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can potentially improve asthma control by facilitating more frequent and accessible care. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.
The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to address the psychological needs of their asthma patients. The integration of mental health services into asthma management is essential for holistic care and can significantly improve patient outcomes. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and access to therapists specializing in chronic illness management further enhances the quality of care.
Assessing the availability of mental health services involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). The integration of mental health into asthma management requires a collaborative approach, involving PCPs, pulmonologists, mental health professionals, and other healthcare providers.
The ideal scenario involves a robust network of primary care physicians, readily accessible telemedicine options, and integrated mental health resources. The analysis should also consider the presence of asthma specialists, such as pulmonologists, and the availability of specialized asthma clinics or programs. The proximity of these specialists and programs to Friendsville is a factor.
Furthermore, the analysis should incorporate data on asthma prevalence rates in the community. Higher prevalence rates may indicate a greater need for asthma-specific resources and interventions. Public health data, such as data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can provide valuable insights into asthma prevalence and related health disparities.
Finally, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact asthma management. Poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and poor housing conditions can all exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder treatment adherence. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for achieving equitable asthma outcomes.
The 'Asthma Score' for Friendsville (18818) would be a composite measure, reflecting the availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the consideration of socioeconomic factors. This score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the community's capacity to manage asthma effectively. This analysis, by providing a detailed examination of these factors, aims to paint a clear picture of the state of asthma care in Friendsville, PA.
To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including PCPs, specialists, pharmacies, and mental health providers, within and around ZIP code 18818, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome.
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