19559, Strausstown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 19559, Strausstown, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.25 percent of the residents in 19559 has some form of health insurance. 52.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.32 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 19559 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 77 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19559. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 66 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,633 health care providers accessible to residents in 19559, Strausstown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides an asthma score assessment for primary care physicians in Strausstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19559), focusing on factors relevant to asthma management and patient access. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive asthma care.

Strausstown, a small community, faces unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural setting often presents difficulties in accessing specialized medical care and can contribute to longer travel times for patients. This analysis aims to illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape in this area, providing insights into how asthma care can be optimized for residents.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments and more individualized care. In Strausstown, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care is likely a key factor in the asthma score. Data on the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, compared to the population size, is essential. If the ratio is unfavorable, this suggests potential difficulties for asthma patients in securing timely appointments, managing chronic conditions, and receiving prompt care during asthma exacerbations.

The type of primary care practices available in Strausstown also plays a significant role. Are the practices solo practices, small group practices, or part of a larger healthcare system? Larger systems often have greater resources, including specialized equipment and a wider range of specialists, which can be beneficial for asthma patients who may require consultations with pulmonologists or allergists. The presence of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists within a reasonable distance of Strausstown would significantly improve the asthma score. The availability of on-site or readily accessible diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, is another critical factor.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing excellent asthma care. This could include practices that have a dedicated asthma educator, offer asthma action plans tailored to individual patients, and actively monitor patients' asthma control. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives related to asthma care, such as those promoted by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), would also score favorably. Furthermore, practices that actively engage in patient education, such as providing educational materials or conducting asthma workshops, are likely to contribute to better patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Practices in Strausstown that offer telemedicine consultations for asthma management, including follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and education, would receive a higher asthma score. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, would further enhance the score.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but critical component of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, are better equipped to provide holistic care. The presence of mental health support groups or educational programs specifically for asthma patients would further enhance the score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for effectively addressing the psychological aspects of asthma.

The overall asthma score for primary care in Strausstown is a composite of these factors. A practice that has a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, is part of a larger healthcare system, offers comprehensive asthma education, utilizes telemedicine, and integrates mental health resources would receive a high score. Conversely, a practice with a less favorable physician-to-patient ratio, limited resources, and a lack of telemedicine or mental health integration would receive a lower score.

The evaluation of each practice should also consider patient satisfaction. Patient reviews, surveys, and feedback provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Practices with positive patient feedback, particularly regarding asthma management, would be viewed more favorably.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in Strausstown requires a multi-faceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources are all essential factors. The ability of local practices to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care is paramount. By carefully evaluating these elements, we can gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify opportunities for improvement.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice types, and the availability of specialized services in Strausstown and the surrounding areas, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape and its impact on asthma patients.