15542, Garrett, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15542, Garrett, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 15542 has some form of health insurance. 44.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.46 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 15542 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 232 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15542. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 235 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 765 health care providers accessible to residents in 15542, Garrett, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Garrett, PA (ZIP Code 15542)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Garrett, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15542) is crucial, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), given the region's demographics and potential environmental factors. This analysis aims to assess the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on factors relevant to COPD management. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, investigate telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of supporting COPD patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Garrett is a fundamental indicator of access to care. While precise, real-time data can fluctuate, a general understanding of the ratio is attainable through publicly available sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards. A low physician-to-patient ratio signals potential challenges for patients, including longer wait times for appointments, reduced time with physicians, and difficulty establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care provider. This is especially critical for COPD patients, who require regular monitoring, medication management, and education to effectively control their condition. The analysis must delve into the specific ratios within the ZIP code, comparing them to regional and national averages to identify potential disparities.

Identifying standout primary care practices in Garrett is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, employing innovative approaches to chronic disease management. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized COPD training, the availability of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT) capabilities, and the use of evidence-based guidelines for COPD treatment. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including the accessibility of appointments, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall quality of care. Practices actively involved in community outreach and patient education programs also deserve recognition, as they contribute to improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Garrett. Telemedicine offers several advantages for COPD patients, including remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management support. Examining the extent to which primary care practices in ZIP Code 15542 have embraced telemedicine is crucial. This involves assessing the availability of virtual appointment options, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into the patient care workflow. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce the burden of travel for patients, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic diseases like COPD, but their importance cannot be overstated. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Garrett is therefore essential. This includes identifying the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, who are accessible to patients in the area. The analysis should also consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, as this can facilitate early identification and treatment of mental health conditions. Furthermore, the availability of support groups and educational resources for COPD patients and their families is a key factor in promoting overall well-being.

The analysis of COPD care in Garrett must also consider the potential impact of environmental factors. Air quality, exposure to pollutants, and the prevalence of smoking can all contribute to the development and exacerbation of COPD. Information on local air quality monitoring, community initiatives to reduce smoking rates, and educational programs on environmental health risks should be included. This holistic approach recognizes that effective COPD management requires addressing not only medical needs but also environmental and social determinants of health.

A comprehensive analysis of primary care availability in Garrett requires a multi-faceted approach, incorporating quantitative data on physician-to-patient ratios, qualitative assessments of practice quality, and an evaluation of telemedicine and mental health resources. The findings of this analysis can inform strategies to improve COPD care in the region, including targeted interventions to increase access to care, enhance the quality of services, and promote patient education and support.

The analysis must also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on COPD management. Individuals with lower incomes may face challenges in accessing healthcare, affording medications, and adhering to treatment plans. The analysis should identify any disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic status and suggest strategies to address these inequities. This could involve advocating for policies that expand access to affordable healthcare, providing financial assistance to patients, and implementing culturally sensitive educational programs.

The ongoing monitoring of healthcare trends is essential. Healthcare delivery is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and best practices emerging regularly. The analysis should incorporate information on the latest advancements in COPD care, such as new medications, innovative therapies, and patient-centered approaches to management. This will ensure that the recommendations are relevant and up-to-date.

The final report must provide actionable recommendations. Based on the findings of the analysis, specific recommendations should be made to improve COPD care in Garrett. These recommendations might include increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health services into primary care practices, and implementing community-based educational programs. These recommendations should be evidence-based, feasible, and tailored to the specific needs of the community.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Garrett, and to effectively map the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and patient populations, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and visualize the impact of environmental factors on COPD prevalence.