15468, New Salem, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15468, New Salem, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.41 percent of the residents in 15468 has some form of health insurance. 42.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.17 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 15468 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 524 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15468. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 384 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 689 health care providers accessible to residents in 15468, New Salem, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on evaluating the quality of COPD care within ZIP code 15468 (New Salem, PA) and the availability of primary care services. This assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Due to the limitations of publicly available data and the dynamic nature of healthcare, this analysis provides an estimated overview rather than a definitive ranking.

The physician-to-patient ratio in New Salem, and the surrounding areas, is a critical indicator of access to care. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized care, including pulmonology. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into the primary care physician-to-population ratio. However, this data may not be specific enough to pinpoint the exact ratio within the 15468 ZIP code. Furthermore, the availability of pulmonologists, essential for COPD management, is even more crucial. It is anticipated that the ratio in New Salem might be less favorable compared to more urban areas.

Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating several factors. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction, and the integration of evidence-based practices. Publicly available information, such as patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can offer some insights into patient experiences. However, these reviews are subjective and may not always reflect the overall quality of care. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Joint Commission can also be a positive indicator, as these organizations assess practices based on specific quality standards. Furthermore, the adoption of comprehensive COPD management strategies, including pulmonary rehabilitation programs, smoking cessation support, and patient education, would distinguish a practice as providing superior care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas, as it can help overcome geographical barriers to care. The availability of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations with primary care physicians and pulmonologists, can improve access to care for patients with COPD. The extent to which practices in 15468 have adopted telemedicine can be assessed by examining their websites or contacting them directly. Factors to consider include the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of scheduling virtual appointments, and the availability of technical support for patients. The ability to remotely monitor patients' vital signs and symptoms can also be a valuable tool in managing COPD.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the practice's website, inquiring about mental health services during a phone call, or reviewing patient testimonials. The presence of support groups for patients with COPD can also be a valuable resource.

The analysis of COPD care in 15468 also considers the availability of specialized services. This includes access to pulmonary function testing, which is essential for diagnosing and monitoring COPD. The availability of these services within the local area can be assessed by contacting local practices or hospitals. Access to respiratory therapists, who play a crucial role in providing respiratory care and education, is also important. The presence of a hospital with a dedicated pulmonary department would be a significant advantage.

The overall "COPD Score" for doctors in 15468 is estimated to be moderate. The challenges of rural healthcare, including potentially lower physician-to-patient ratios and limited access to specialized services, likely impact the overall score. However, the presence of dedicated practices and the adoption of telemedicine could improve the score. The integration of mental health resources and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs would also be positive factors. The score is based on the available information and general trends in rural healthcare.

The availability of primary care in New Salem is similarly assessed. The factors considered include the number of primary care physicians, the accessibility of appointments, and the availability of after-hours care. The presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or other community health centers can improve access to care for underserved populations. The ability to see a primary care physician promptly is crucial for managing chronic conditions like COPD. The ability to get appointments, the availability of same-day appointments for urgent needs, and the ease of communication with the practice are all important factors.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of COPD care and primary care availability in New Salem requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While this analysis provides an overview, a comprehensive assessment would require more detailed data and direct engagement with local healthcare providers.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of New Salem, and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the location of practices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, and analyze the accessibility of care in your area.