18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.87 percent of the residents in 18925 has some form of health insurance. 15.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.86 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 18925 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,000 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18925. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 893 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,736 health care providers accessible to residents in 18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in 18925 and Primary Care in Furlong

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within the 18925 ZIP code, specifically focusing on Furlong, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We'll consider several key factors, from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources, to arrive at an "Asthma Score" assessment. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the current healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers.

The cornerstone of accessible asthma care is the presence of qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). Furlong, being a relatively small community, likely faces challenges in maintaining a high PCP-to-patient ratio. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying critical interventions during asthma exacerbations. Data on physician density, including the number of PCPs practicing within the 18925 ZIP code, is crucial. Furthermore, we need to assess the specialties of these physicians; a PCP with a strong interest in respiratory medicine or a pulmonologist practicing nearby significantly improves the Asthma Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care offered is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices of PCPs and specialists. Do they adhere to the latest asthma treatment guidelines, such as those established by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Do they offer comprehensive asthma action plans, tailored to individual patient needs? Do they provide education on proper inhaler technique and trigger avoidance? Practices that proactively manage asthma, offering preventative care and patient education, will naturally score higher.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve asthma management, especially for patients with chronic conditions. Telemedicine allows for convenient follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and education sessions, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual asthma consultations and remote monitoring of peak flow meters, will demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and score favorably. The availability of virtual asthma education programs also contributes positively.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they are vital. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health screening and provide access to mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The availability of on-site mental health services or referrals to local mental health providers will positively influence the Asthma Score.

Specific practices within the 18925 ZIP code need individual evaluation. Identifying standout practices involves assessing their patient reviews, their commitment to continuing medical education, and their integration of technology. Practices with positive patient feedback, a history of adopting evidence-based practices, and a demonstrated commitment to patient education will likely receive higher scores. It's also important to evaluate the availability of specialized asthma clinics or programs within the area. These programs often offer comprehensive care, including pulmonary function testing, allergy testing, and asthma education classes.

Accessibility is another key factor. This includes the availability of evening and weekend appointments, as well as the ease of scheduling appointments. Practices that offer flexible scheduling options and have a user-friendly appointment booking system will contribute positively to the overall Asthma Score. The location of practices, including their proximity to public transportation and the availability of parking, also impacts accessibility.

The Asthma Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be continually updated. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new treatments, technologies, and guidelines emerging regularly. Regular reviews of physician practices, the adoption of new technologies, and the integration of mental health resources are essential for maintaining a high Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for the 18925 ZIP code, with a focus on Furlong, will be determined by a weighted average of these factors. A high score indicates a strong healthcare infrastructure, with accessible, high-quality care that integrates telemedicine and mental health resources. A low score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing physician density, improving the adoption of telemedicine, and enhancing the integration of mental health services.

Analyzing the current state of asthma care in Furlong, Pennsylvania, reveals a complex picture. While the community may have access to primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialized asthma care may be limited. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources may vary across practices. A comprehensive assessment, considering all the factors discussed, is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources in the 18925 ZIP code, including the locations of physician practices, pharmacies, and other relevant facilities, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful visualization tool, enabling you to analyze the data and identify areas where improvements are needed.