19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.39 percent of the residents in 19033 has some form of health insurance. 22.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.25 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 19033 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19033. An estimate of 40 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,018 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Primary Care and Asthma Management in Folsom, PA (ZIP Code 19033)**

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care within Folsom, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19033) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), focusing on their capacity to manage asthma, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to asthma sufferers in this community.

Folsom, PA, a suburban community, faces the same challenges as many areas regarding healthcare access. The availability of PCPs is a critical factor in asthma management. Early diagnosis, consistent monitoring, and patient education are cornerstones of effective asthma control. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary care and exacerbating asthma symptoms. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive management. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or local county health departments can provide estimates of physician-to-patient ratios. These figures, however, are often broad and may not accurately reflect the availability of PCPs actively accepting new patients or specializing in asthma management.

Identifying standout practices within the Folsom area is essential. Practices with a proven track record in asthma care often demonstrate specific characteristics. These may include a dedicated asthma education program, readily available spirometry testing, and a commitment to staying current with the latest asthma guidelines. Reviews from patients, available on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Look for mentions of clear communication from physicians, personalized treatment plans, and a proactive approach to managing asthma triggers. Additionally, practices that actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives often demonstrate a higher level of commitment to patient care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in the context of chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. For asthma patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual check-ups, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms. The adoption rate of telemedicine among PCPs in Folsom is a key indicator of accessibility. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive management. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with digital connectivity, can further enhance telemedicine’s effectiveness.

The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is another critical aspect. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. Practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services, such as access to therapists or psychologists, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce the frequency of asthma exacerbations, and enhance overall quality of life. Examining the availability of mental health professionals within PCP practices or through referrals is a key component of the assessment.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists, is essential. While PCPs are often the first point of contact for asthma management, pulmonologists provide specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating complex cases. The proximity of pulmonologists to Folsom and the ease with which patients can obtain referrals are important factors. Access to allergy testing and immunotherapy services, which can help identify and manage asthma triggers, is also a consideration.

Assessing the effectiveness of asthma management requires an evaluation of patient outcomes. This can be challenging, as data on asthma control rates is often not publicly available. However, insights can be gleaned from patient reviews, which may mention the frequency of asthma exacerbations, the effectiveness of treatment plans, and the overall improvement in quality of life. The availability of patient education materials, such as brochures, online resources, and support groups, also indicates a practice's commitment to empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.

The assessment of primary care availability in Folsom requires a detailed investigation of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a fundamental understanding of access. Standout practices, identified through patient reviews and a focus on asthma-specific services, are key to high-quality care. Telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and holistic care. The availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists and allergy services, is also important. The ultimate goal is to determine the resources available to asthma sufferers in Folsom and identify opportunities for improvement.

To gain a visual representation of the primary care landscape in Folsom, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and potential areas of need, consider exploring the power of geographic data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive platform to analyze this information, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.