The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15045, Glassport, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 92.84 percent of the residents in 15045 has some form of health insurance. 44.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.23 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 15045 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 884 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15045. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 767 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,760 health care providers accessible to residents in 15045, Glassport, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 15045, Glassport, Pennsylvania
COPD Score | 65 |
---|---|
People Score | 20 |
Provider Score | 85 |
Hospital Score | 44 |
Travel Score | 65 |
15045 | Glassport | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## COPD Score Analysis: Glassport, PA (ZIP Code 15045)
Glassport, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Monongahela Valley, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis provides a “COPD Score” assessment, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care within the 15045 ZIP code, focusing on factors crucial for effective COPD management. The score considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive COPD care strategy.
The COPD Score, in this context, is not a single numerical value. It’s a qualitative assessment based on the factors mentioned above, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to COPD patients in Glassport and identify areas needing improvement.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**
A critical element of COPD care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed appointments, reduced time spent with patients, and ultimately, compromised care. In Glassport, the physician-to-patient ratio is a significant concern. The area, like many in Western Pennsylvania, has experienced a decline in the number of practicing physicians, particularly PCPs. This scarcity puts a strain on existing providers, making it harder for COPD patients to access timely check-ups, medication refills, and specialized consultations. The impact is amplified by the prevalence of COPD, often linked to the region's industrial history and environmental factors. The score here is negatively affected by this lack of resources.
**Standout Practices:**
Identifying standout practices that excel in COPD management is crucial. These practices often demonstrate best practices, such as utilizing standardized COPD assessment tools, providing patient education on self-management techniques, and coordinating care with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. In Glassport, identifying practices with a strong focus on COPD is essential. This involves evaluating the presence of dedicated COPD clinics, the use of advanced diagnostic tools, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Practices with established relationships with local hospitals and specialists are also highly valued. The presence of these practices, or the lack thereof, directly impacts the COPD Score. The score is elevated by the presence of practices that actively and demonstrably focus on COPD management.
**Telemedicine Adoption:**
Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving COPD care, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare providers. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and remote patient monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. In Glassport, the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices is a key factor in the COPD Score. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and educational resources via telehealth platforms receive higher marks. This approach can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges. The score is positively influenced by the widespread use of telemedicine.
**Mental Health Resources:**
COPD often co-exists with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can worsen COPD symptoms and reduce quality of life. The integration of mental health resources into primary care is therefore critical for effective COPD management. In Glassport, the availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals to external providers, significantly impacts the COPD Score. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health professionals receive higher marks. The score is improved by the presence of integrated mental health support.
**Overall Assessment and Recommendations:**
Based on the factors discussed, the COPD Score for primary care availability in Glassport (15045) is currently moderate, with areas needing improvement. The physician-to-patient ratio is a significant challenge, requiring strategies to attract and retain physicians. Telemedicine adoption, while potentially beneficial, needs to be more widespread. The integration of mental health resources is crucial for comprehensive care.
To improve the COPD Score, several recommendations are essential. First, efforts should be made to attract more PCPs to the area, possibly through incentives and partnerships with medical schools. Second, primary care practices should actively adopt and expand their telemedicine capabilities, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring. Third, practices should prioritize the integration of mental health services, either through in-house counseling or strong referral networks. Fourth, local hospitals and healthcare systems should invest in pulmonary rehabilitation programs and educational resources for COPD patients. Finally, a community-wide effort to raise awareness about COPD and promote early diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
The success of these efforts will depend on collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. By addressing the challenges and implementing the recommendations, Glassport can improve the quality of COPD care and enhance the lives of its residents.
**Call to Action:**
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