18912, Buckingham, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18912, Buckingham, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.64 percent of the residents in 18912 has some form of health insurance. 56.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.74 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 18912 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18912. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,208 health care providers accessible to residents in 18912, Buckingham, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Buckingham, PA (ZIP Code 18912)

Buckingham, Pennsylvania, a community nestled within ZIP code 18912, presents a unique landscape for assessing asthma care. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, specifically focusing on asthma management within the area. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify potentially standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and assess the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive asthma care.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests upon readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios for 18912 are difficult to ascertain without proprietary data, publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. These estimates, coupled with data from local hospitals and healthcare systems, offer a general understanding of the accessibility of primary care. Buckingham’s relative affluence and proximity to larger metropolitan areas might suggest a more favorable ratio compared to underserved rural areas, but this requires careful verification.

The quality of care extends beyond mere availability. Identifying standout practices within 18912 requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, physician qualifications, and the specific services offered. Practices with board-certified allergists or pulmonologists on staff are particularly valuable, given their specialized expertise in asthma and respiratory conditions. Furthermore, clinics employing certified asthma educators (CAEs) can significantly improve patient outcomes. CAEs provide personalized education on asthma triggers, medication management, and proper inhaler technique, empowering patients to proactively manage their condition. Researching local practices' websites, patient testimonials, and professional directories like the American Medical Association (AMA) can help identify these high-quality providers.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased accessibility for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. It also allows for more frequent follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals, are better positioned to provide convenient and effective asthma care. Assessing telemedicine capabilities involves examining practice websites, contacting clinics directly, and reviewing insurance coverage for telehealth services.

Asthma is not solely a physical ailment; it often co-exists with mental health challenges. Anxiety and depression are frequently observed in individuals with asthma, exacerbating symptoms and hindering adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate mental health screenings, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care. Examining practice websites, inquiring about mental health services during initial consultations, and reviewing patient reviews can help assess the integration of mental health support.

Buckingham, being a relatively affluent area, may have better access to mental health resources compared to other regions. However, it is crucial to verify this assumption through careful research. Local hospitals, community health centers, and mental health organizations can provide information on available services and referral pathways. The presence of support groups and educational programs specifically tailored to individuals with asthma and their families further enhances the quality of care.

Analyzing the specific practices within 18912, we can look for certain indicators. Does a practice have a dedicated asthma clinic or a specialized program? Are they actively involved in asthma research or participate in quality improvement initiatives? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient outcomes and personalize treatment plans? These factors contribute to a practice's overall effectiveness in managing asthma.

The effectiveness of asthma management also depends on patient education and self-management skills. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education materials, offer asthma action plans, and encourage patients to actively participate in their care are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Evaluating a practice's commitment to patient education involves reviewing their educational materials, observing the interaction between physicians and patients, and assessing the availability of support groups or educational programs.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in Buckingham (ZIP code 18912) requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices with specialized expertise, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources. While Buckingham may possess advantages due to its location and demographics, thorough research is essential to determine the true accessibility and quality of asthma care available.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources and demographics in Buckingham and surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, population density, and other relevant data points, aiding in a more informed assessment of asthma care accessibility and quality.