15688, Tarrs, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15688, Tarrs, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.81 percent of the residents in 15688 has some form of health insurance. 29.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.82 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 15688 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 145 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15688. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 221 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,610 health care providers accessible to residents in 15688, Tarrs, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Tarrs, PA (ZIP Code 15688)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients within the Tarrs, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15688) area. It specifically focuses on primary care physician (PCP) availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective COPD management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' assessment, offering insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

The cornerstone of COPD care lies in accessible and knowledgeable primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Tarrs, PA, is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, poorer disease management. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio in this specific ZIP code is the initial step. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards will be essential to determine this. A low ratio warrants concern and necessitates exploring alternative care options.

Analyzing the existing primary care landscape requires identifying the practices serving the Tarrs community. Examining their websites, patient reviews, and affiliations with hospitals or specialists provides a crucial understanding of their capabilities. Do these practices have experience treating COPD? Do they offer specialized services like pulmonary function testing (PFT) or access to respiratory therapists? The presence of such resources significantly impacts the COPD Score.

Several practices might stand out. Perhaps one boasts a strong track record of patient satisfaction, indicating effective communication and care coordination. Another might have invested in advanced diagnostic equipment, allowing for more accurate assessments. A third might be part of a larger network, offering access to a broader range of specialists and resources. Identifying these standout practices is crucial for patients seeking optimal COPD care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits for COPD patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication management support. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management. The analysis must determine which practices in the area offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the technology platforms they utilize.

The connection between COPD and mental health is well-established. COPD patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges due to the chronic nature of their illness and the impact on their quality of life. The integration of mental health resources into COPD care is therefore crucial. This analysis must investigate whether local primary care practices offer on-site mental health services, referrals to mental health specialists, or partnerships with mental health organizations. The availability of these resources significantly elevates the COPD Score.

Furthermore, the availability of resources beyond primary care is vital. Does the area have access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs? These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Are there local support groups for COPD patients, offering a sense of community and shared experience? The presence of these resources contributes positively to the COPD Score.

Evaluating the overall COPD Score involves synthesizing all the collected data. It requires weighing the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of other supportive resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for COPD patients, while a lower score highlights areas needing improvement.

For example, a practice with a good physician-to-patient ratio, offering telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and having access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs would receive a high score. Conversely, a practice with a poor physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialized services, and no telemedicine or mental health support would receive a lower score.

The assessment should also consider the accessibility of care. Are practices conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient needs? The ease of access to care is a crucial factor in the overall COPD Score.

Finally, the analysis must consider the patient perspective. Patient reviews and testimonials offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided by local practices. Are patients satisfied with their care? Do they feel supported and empowered to manage their condition? Incorporating patient feedback provides a more holistic and accurate assessment of the COPD Score.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Tarrs, PA (ZIP Code 15688) depends on a complex interplay of factors. Assessing physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and access to specialized resources paints a picture of the quality of care available to COPD patients. This analysis, when complete, will provide a valuable resource for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.
Consider using CartoChrome maps to visualize the locations of practices, resources, and other relevant data points, creating a more comprehensive and user-friendly tool for navigating the COPD care landscape in Tarrs, PA.