19507, Bethel, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19507, Bethel, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.93 percent of the residents in 19507 has some form of health insurance. 22.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.22 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 19507 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,005 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19507. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 380 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 864 health care providers accessible to residents in 19507, Bethel, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Bethel, PA (ZIP Code 19507)

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within Bethel, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19507), focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The goal is to provide an “Asthma Score” assessment, indirectly, by examining factors that influence asthma management and patient outcomes. This score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on the availability and quality of care elements.

Bethel, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. Understanding the local resources is crucial for residents managing asthma, a chronic respiratory condition requiring consistent medical attention.

**Primary Care Physician Availability:**

The cornerstone of asthma management is a strong relationship with a primary care physician (PCP). This physician serves as the initial point of contact, providing diagnosis, treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hinder timely care. Publicly available data, like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, should be consulted to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 19507. This data is crucial for understanding the accessibility of primary care.

Bethel’s rural setting might present a lower physician density compared to urban areas. This can necessitate residents traveling further for appointments, adding a layer of complexity to asthma management, especially during exacerbations. The availability of after-hours care or urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance is also a factor.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence in asthma management, incorporating best practices and patient-centered care. Factors to consider include the practice's commitment to evidence-based guidelines, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and the availability of specialized asthma education for patients.

Practices that actively engage in patient education, teaching proper inhaler techniques and identifying asthma triggers, are particularly valuable. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive asthma action plans, tailored to individual patient needs, contribute significantly to improved asthma control. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a strong indicator of a commitment to quality care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in Bethel can significantly impact asthma management. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of patients' symptoms.

Practices utilizing telemedicine can offer greater flexibility for patients, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living far from the clinic. Telemedicine can also facilitate quicker access to care during exacerbations, enabling physicians to assess symptoms and adjust treatment plans remotely.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance:**

Asthma can significantly impact mental health. The chronic nature of the condition, coupled with the fear of exacerbations, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore crucial for holistic asthma care.

The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their routine care and offer referrals to mental health services are particularly commendable. Furthermore, the availability of support groups or educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of asthma can greatly benefit patients.

**Asthma Score Assessment (Indirect):**

Based on the above analysis, an “Asthma Score” assessment is developed. This is not a single number, but a qualitative evaluation based on the factors discussed.

* **Primary Care Access:** The physician-to-patient ratio is a key factor. If the ratio is favorable, indicating readily available PCPs, the score is positively impacted. Distance to care and availability of urgent care facilities are also relevant.
* **Practice Quality:** Practices demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based asthma management, patient education, and the use of EHRs receive a higher score. The presence of certified asthma educators and comprehensive asthma action plans are significant.
* **Telemedicine Integration:** Practices actively using telemedicine for asthma management contribute positively to the score, especially in a rural setting.
* **Mental Health Support:** The availability of mental health resources and the integration of mental health screening into routine care are crucial. Practices offering referrals to mental health services receive a higher score.

The overall “Asthma Score” assessment for Bethel (19507) will be influenced by the collective performance of these factors. The higher the availability of PCPs, the better the quality of primary care practices, the more widespread the use of telemedicine, and the more readily available mental health resources, the better the "Asthma Score" is.

**Conclusion:**

Asthma management in Bethel, Pennsylvania, requires a comprehensive approach. Access to quality primary care, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support are critical components. Understanding the local healthcare landscape, including physician-to-patient ratios, the practices of standout providers, and the availability of mental health resources, is essential for improving patient outcomes.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Bethel, including physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care.