15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.44 percent of the residents in 15139 has some form of health insurance. 31.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.77 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 15139 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,280 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 294 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15139. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,435 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,517 health care providers accessible to residents in 15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Oakmont, PA (ZIP Code 15139)

Oakmont, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Allegheny River, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Understanding the availability and quality of care, particularly for a chronic respiratory condition like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), is crucial for residents. This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources within the 15139 ZIP code.

The prevalence of COPD, often linked to smoking history and environmental factors, necessitates robust primary care infrastructure. A strong primary care foundation is the first line of defense, providing early diagnosis, disease management, and referral to specialists when needed. The COPD Score, therefore, begins with evaluating the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. The ideal scenario is a low ratio, indicating more readily accessible care.

Oakmont’s physician-to-patient ratio is a critical data point. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), must be analyzed to determine the actual ratio. This involves identifying the number of practicing PCPs within the 15139 ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. A high ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, would negatively impact the COPD Score. Conversely, a low ratio would contribute positively.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves assessing the practices themselves. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate working individuals? Do they have a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including chronic disease management programs, would contribute favorably to the COPD Score.

Standout practices within Oakmont would be those that excel in these areas. Identifying these practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, checking online ratings (while acknowledging their limitations), and examining the services offered. Practices that proactively manage COPD patients, providing regular check-ups, pulmonary function testing, and patient education, would be highly regarded. Furthermore, practices with strong communication systems, including patient portals and readily available contact information, would be essential.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the COPD Score. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations and remote monitoring, offers significant advantages for COPD patients. It can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-ups, medication management, and patient education, would receive a higher score. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, further enhances the value of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for COPD patients. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with breathing difficulties, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and offer access to mental health professionals, either in-house or through referrals, would be highly valued. The availability of support groups and educational programs on coping with COPD and its emotional impact is equally important.

The COPD Score also considers the accessibility of specialty care. While primary care is the cornerstone, COPD patients often require the expertise of pulmonologists. The proximity of pulmonologists, along with the ease of referral from primary care physicians, is essential. The availability of specialized diagnostic services, such as pulmonary function testing and imaging, within the area is also critical.

Furthermore, the presence of local hospitals and emergency services, particularly those equipped to handle respiratory emergencies, is a significant factor. COPD exacerbations can be life-threatening, and rapid access to emergency care is crucial. Hospitals with dedicated respiratory care units and experienced staff would contribute positively to the COPD Score.

The overall COPD Score for Oakmont, PA (15139) is derived from a weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are all considered. The availability of specialty care and emergency services also play a crucial role. A higher score indicates a more favorable healthcare environment for COPD patients, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement.

This analysis provides a general overview. To gain a more comprehensive understanding, residents of Oakmont should actively research healthcare providers, assess their needs, and consider factors such as insurance coverage and personal preferences. The information presented here serves as a starting point for informed decision-making.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Oakmont and surrounding areas, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, including physician locations, practice information, and resource availability. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a more comprehensive perspective and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.