15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.44 percent of the residents in 15137 has some form of health insurance. 51.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.57 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 15137 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,243 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15137. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,384 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,843 health care providers accessible to residents in 15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15137 and Primary Care in North Versailles

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care services, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within ZIP code 15137 (North Versailles, Pennsylvania) and the broader context of primary care accessibility in the area. The goal is to provide a COPD Score, reflecting the ease with which residents can access quality care for this chronic respiratory illness. The analysis will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective COPD management.

North Versailles, a borough located in Allegheny County, faces the typical challenges of suburban and exurban communities, including an aging population, potentially limited transportation options, and varying levels of access to healthcare. Understanding the local landscape is essential to assess the COPD Score accurately.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility**

The initial assessment involves determining the physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. This metric provides a fundamental understanding of the potential for patients to access primary care physicians. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better accessibility. Data from sources such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the US Census Bureau, and professional medical directories will be utilized. The analysis will also consider the specialties of available physicians, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists, who are critical for COPD diagnosis and management. The proximity of specialists in adjacent ZIP codes or nearby hospitals, such as UPMC McKeesport, will also be factored into the accessibility score.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, a crucial factor for managing acute COPD exacerbations. The ability to quickly see a physician can significantly impact patient outcomes. The availability of walk-in clinics or urgent care facilities in the area, and their capacity to handle COPD-related issues, will also be evaluated.

**Standout Practices and their Impact**

The next phase will identify and analyze standout primary care practices within and around 15137. This involves reviewing online patient reviews, assessing practice websites, and examining information from professional organizations. Practices will be evaluated on their approach to COPD management, including their use of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and access to pulmonary function testing (PFT).

The analysis will also consider the practice's commitment to preventive care, such as offering smoking cessation programs and flu vaccinations, both of which are critical for COPD patients. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient care, incorporating these elements, will receive higher scores. The presence of certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) or other specialized staff within the practice will also be noted, as they play a vital role in COPD management.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine services by primary care practices in the area. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and follow-up care.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve access to care for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The analysis will consider the ease of use of telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and provide timely interventions can significantly improve outcomes for COPD patients.

**Mental Health Resources and COPD Management**

COPD often co-exists with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources in the area, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists.

The analysis will also assess whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers. The presence of support groups or educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of COPD will also be considered. A comprehensive approach to COPD management must address both the physical and mental health needs of patients.

**COPD Score Calculation and Conclusion**

Based on the analysis of the above factors, a COPD Score will be calculated. This score will be a composite measure reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of COPD-related care in ZIP code 15137 and the surrounding area. The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to quality care.

The COPD Score will provide valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can inform decisions about healthcare utilization, resource allocation, and the development of initiatives to improve COPD care. The analysis will highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing access to mental health resources.

The final COPD Score will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates will be necessary to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the score.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in North Versailles, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the power of geospatial data visualization. CartoChrome maps provide interactive insights, allowing you to analyze the distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Visit CartoChrome to unlock the power of location-based data and gain a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility in your community.