18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18843 has some form of health insurance. 34.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.66 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 18843 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18843. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 51 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 162 health care providers accessible to residents in 18843, South Montrose, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18843 and Primary Care Availability in South Montrose

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on doctors within ZIP code 18843 (South Montrose, Pennsylvania) and the broader context of primary care availability in the area, evaluating factors crucial to asthma sufferers. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. We will then synthesize this information into an "Asthma Score" assessment.

South Montrose, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare delivery. Geographic isolation, limited public transportation, and an aging population contribute to potential difficulties in accessing timely and appropriate medical care. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists, and potentially compromised continuity of care, all of which are detrimental to effective asthma management. Publicly available data, such as those from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), would be crucial in determining the specific ratio for 18843. However, without concrete data, we must consider the general trends of rural healthcare, which often present a disadvantage.

Evaluating "standout practices" involves identifying medical facilities that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care excellence. This includes factors like board-certified pulmonologists or allergists on staff, dedicated asthma education programs for patients and families, adherence to national guidelines for asthma management, and participation in quality improvement initiatives. These practices often employ advanced diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, and offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs. Researching local physician directories, patient reviews, and healthcare rating websites (e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals) can help identify such practices. The presence of a practice specializing in respiratory illnesses would significantly improve the "Asthma Score."

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and medication management, significantly improving access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living far from medical facilities. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among local doctors and practices is crucial. This involves determining whether physicians offer virtual appointments, use remote monitoring devices, and provide online patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices with robust telemedicine capabilities would score higher.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, contributing to anxiety, depression, and stress. Conversely, mental health challenges can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, within the medical practices or through readily accessible referrals is vital. This includes assessing whether primary care physicians screen for mental health issues and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. The presence of integrated mental health services directly correlates with a higher "Asthma Score."

Synthesizing these factors into an "Asthma Score" requires a weighted approach. Physician-to-patient ratio would carry significant weight, reflecting the fundamental accessibility of care. The presence of standout practices, particularly those specializing in respiratory illnesses, would also receive a high weighting. Telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources would contribute moderately, reflecting their importance in enhancing care delivery and patient well-being. The absence of any of these components would negatively impact the score.

For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio, the absence of specialized respiratory care, limited telemedicine options, and no apparent mental health integration would result in a low "Asthma Score." Conversely, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of a practice with pulmonologists, robust telemedicine services, and integrated mental health support would lead to a higher score.

Without specific data, it is difficult to assign a precise score for doctors in ZIP code 18843. However, based on the general challenges of rural healthcare, it is likely that the initial "Asthma Score" would be moderate, with potential for improvement through targeted initiatives.

To improve the "Asthma Score," several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting more physicians, particularly specialists in pulmonology and allergy, is paramount. Encouraging practices to adopt and expand telemedicine services would improve access to care. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices or establishing partnerships with local mental health providers would address the critical link between asthma and mental well-being. Community outreach programs to educate patients about asthma management and promote self-care strategies are also vital.

Ultimately, a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources, coupled with a commitment to addressing identified gaps, is essential for improving asthma care in South Montrose. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in South Montrose and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specialties, and telemedicine availability, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform can provide a valuable spatial perspective on healthcare access and inform strategic planning for improved asthma care.