15486, Vanderbilt, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15486, Vanderbilt, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.48 percent of the residents in 15486 has some form of health insurance. 40.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.38 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 15486 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 242 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15486. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 440 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 237 health care providers accessible to residents in 15486, Vanderbilt, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15486 & Primary Care in Vanderbilt

This analysis assesses the quality of primary care available to individuals in ZIP code 15486, with a particular focus on the management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). We will examine physician availability, practice characteristics, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing the quality of care for COPD patients. The assessment will also consider the broader healthcare landscape, specifically the influence of Vanderbilt University Medical Center on the region.

ZIP code 15486, which encompasses the town of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, presents a unique healthcare environment. The area is largely rural, which often translates to challenges in accessing healthcare services. A significant aging population, coupled with a history of coal mining, suggests a higher prevalence of COPD. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure capable of effectively diagnosing, managing, and providing ongoing support to COPD patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In areas with a lower ratio, patients may face longer wait times for appointments, reduced time with their physicians, and potentially less comprehensive care. Accurate data on the physician-to-patient ratio within 15486 is critical. This data should include the number of practicing primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and other specialists involved in COPD care, such as respiratory therapists. The analysis should also consider the availability of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance, given the rural nature of the area.

Identifying standout primary care practices within 15486 is crucial. These practices should be evaluated based on several criteria. These criteria include the use of evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFT) in-house or through readily accessible referral networks, and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in COPD-related research or quality improvement initiatives should also be highlighted. Furthermore, the practices' patient satisfaction scores and reviews should be considered, providing insights into the patient experience.

The adoption of telemedicine is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel. For COPD patients, telemedicine can facilitate medication management, remote monitoring of vital signs, and virtual pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The analysis should investigate the extent to which primary care practices in 15486 utilize telemedicine platforms for COPD management. This includes the types of services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telemedicine with the practice's electronic health record (EHR) system.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, which can significantly impact their quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health services within primary care practices in 15486. This includes the presence of on-site mental health professionals, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health screening tools into routine patient care.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) has a significant influence on the broader healthcare landscape. Its reputation for excellence in respiratory medicine and research should be considered. The analysis should examine the extent to which primary care practices in 15486 have affiliations with VUMC, whether through referral networks, educational partnerships, or access to specialized services. Furthermore, the analysis should explore how VUMC's expertise and resources are leveraged to support COPD care in the region. This might involve providing educational programs for local physicians, offering specialized consultations, or supporting research initiatives.

The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is another critical factor in COPD management. Pulmonary rehabilitation helps patients improve their lung function, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life. The analysis should identify the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs within 15486 and the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the program's accessibility, the qualifications of the staff, and the program's effectiveness in improving patient outcomes. The analysis should also consider the availability of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling.

The analysis should also consider the availability of support groups and educational resources for COPD patients. These resources can provide patients with valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community. The analysis should identify any local support groups or educational programs available to COPD patients in 15486 and assess their accessibility and effectiveness. The availability of educational materials, such as brochures, online resources, and educational videos, should also be considered.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of COPD care in ZIP code 15486 requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. These factors include physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the influence of Vanderbilt. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. This analysis should provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients alike, ultimately leading to better care for individuals living with COPD.

To visualize and analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources in ZIP code 15486 and the surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and the availability of specialized services, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.