19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 19027 has some form of health insurance. 30.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.72 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 19027 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19027. An estimate of 33 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,588 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37,440 health care providers accessible to residents in 19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Elkins Park, PA (ZIP Code 19027)

Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, a suburban community nestled in Montgomery County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 19027, focusing on factors critical to asthma sufferers, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive overview aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Elkins Park is a crucial metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend suggests a reasonable, but not necessarily abundant, supply of PCPs. This implies that while securing an appointment with a PCP is usually feasible, the competition for appointments, especially during peak respiratory illness seasons, can be challenging. This can translate to delays in diagnosis, treatment adjustments, and overall asthma management. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent asthma exacerbations is a significant factor in determining the Asthma Score.

Several primary care practices in Elkins Park have distinguished themselves in the realm of asthma care. These "standout" practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to patient management. They may employ dedicated asthma educators, nurses specializing in respiratory health, and comprehensive asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs. They may also emphasize patient education regarding trigger avoidance, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique. These practices typically have a higher Asthma Score due to their commitment to providing a holistic and patient-centered approach.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the Asthma Score. The ability to consult with a PCP remotely, via video or phone, can be invaluable for asthma patients. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including reduced travel time, especially beneficial during severe asthma attacks or inclement weather. It also facilitates more frequent check-ins, allowing for timely adjustments to medication regimens and addressing emerging concerns. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly those offering virtual asthma management programs, receive a higher score. The ease of access to telemedicine services significantly impacts the overall patient experience and improves asthma control.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as integral to comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, contributing to anxiety, depression, and stress. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals to mental health professionals, receive a higher Asthma Score. This integration might involve screening for mental health conditions, offering counseling services within the practice, or collaborating with mental health specialists to provide coordinated care. Addressing the psychological aspects of asthma is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

The Asthma Score also considers the availability of specialized asthma care within the local area. While PCPs are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to pulmonologists and allergists is essential for patients with complex or severe asthma. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the collaboration between PCPs and specialists are all factors that influence the Asthma Score. A strong network of specialists ensures that patients receive the appropriate level of care when needed.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score is influenced by the practice's responsiveness to patient needs. This includes factors like appointment scheduling efficiency, communication responsiveness, and the availability of after-hours care. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer convenient appointment times, and provide clear and concise information about asthma management receive a higher score. These practices demonstrate a commitment to providing accessible and patient-friendly care.

The analysis of the Elkins Park healthcare landscape reveals a mixed picture. While the presence of dedicated practices and telemedicine adoption is encouraging, the physician-to-patient ratio and the need for further integration of mental health resources present areas for improvement. The overall Asthma Score for Elkins Park is moderately positive, suggesting that while quality care is available, patients may encounter challenges in accessing it promptly.

The availability of resources like asthma educators, the implementation of comprehensive asthma action plans, and the adoption of telemedicine are all positive indicators. However, the limited physician supply and the varying levels of mental health integration necessitate ongoing efforts to improve asthma care accessibility and comprehensiveness.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for Elkins Park, PA (19027) reflects a community with potential for excellent asthma management. The presence of dedicated practices and the increasing adoption of telemedicine are positive developments. However, ongoing efforts are needed to address physician availability and enhance the integration of mental health services.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elkins Park, including the location of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize and analyze healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and healthcare access.