15696, Youngstown, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15696, Youngstown, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.64 percent of the residents in 15696 has some form of health insurance. 47.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.98 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 15696 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 18 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15696. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 52 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,831 health care providers accessible to residents in 15696, Youngstown, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Resources in ZIP Code 15696 & Primary Care in Youngstown

This analysis assesses the availability of resources and the potential quality of care for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within ZIP Code 15696 (Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania) and evaluates the primary care landscape in Youngstown, Ohio, focusing on factors crucial for COPD management. The goal is to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, considering physician availability, resource accessibility, and the integration of modern healthcare practices.

ZIP Code 15696, encompassing areas like Youngwood and parts of Hempfield Township, presents a unique healthcare environment. The primary challenge lies in the distribution and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists. While the presence of larger healthcare systems like Excela Health provides a foundation, the actual physician-to-patient ratio is critical. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, increased wait times, and potentially compromised care for patients with chronic conditions like COPD, who require regular monitoring and management. Furthermore, the prevalence of smoking history in this region, a significant risk factor for COPD, likely increases the demand for respiratory specialists.

The COPD Score for 15696 will be impacted by the presence and accessibility of pulmonologists. The proximity to larger medical centers often dictates access to specialists. While the presence of pulmonologists in the broader Westmoreland County area offers some advantage, travel time and appointment availability remain significant factors. The ability of PCPs to effectively manage stable COPD cases is also vital. The availability of comprehensive training and resources for PCPs, including access to up-to-date guidelines and diagnostic tools, directly influences the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption presents a crucial element in improving the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers a valuable avenue for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth services from both PCPs and pulmonologists can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden of frequent in-person visits. The adoption rate of telemedicine within practices in 15696 will directly influence the score.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked in COPD care, yet they are essential. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial for comprehensive COPD management. The COPD Score will reflect the integration of mental health services within the local healthcare system. The presence of integrated behavioral health programs, referrals from PCPs, and readily accessible mental health support are essential factors.

Shifting focus to Youngstown, Ohio, the primary care landscape plays a crucial role in the COPD Score. The overall primary care availability, including the number of PCPs per capita, significantly impacts the ability of patients to access timely and appropriate care. A shortage of PCPs can lead to increased wait times, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for COPD. The geographical distribution of primary care practices within Youngstown is also critical. Access to care should be equitably distributed across the city, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their location, have access to PCPs.

The presence of standout practices in Youngstown will positively influence the COPD Score. These practices are characterized by a commitment to patient-centered care, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and a focus on chronic disease management. They may offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or specialized COPD clinics. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the use of data analytics to improve patient outcomes are also hallmarks of high-performing practices.

The integration of telemedicine is equally important in Youngstown. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. The availability of telehealth services from PCPs and pulmonologists can improve patient outcomes. The COPD Score will reflect the adoption rate of telemedicine within the primary care practices in Youngstown.

Mental health resources in Youngstown are also critical for COPD management. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial for comprehensive COPD management. The COPD Score will reflect the integration of mental health services within the local healthcare system. The presence of integrated behavioral health programs, referrals from PCPs, and readily accessible mental health support are essential factors.

Evaluating the COPD Score involves considering several factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of pulmonologists, telemedicine adoption rates, the integration of mental health services, and the existence of standout practices all contribute to the overall score. The score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the current healthcare environment and its ability to meet the needs of COPD patients.

The analysis of 15696 and Youngstown requires a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. This includes identifying available resources, evaluating the quality of care, and assessing the integration of modern healthcare practices. The COPD Score provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and patient populations within ZIP Code 15696 and Youngstown, we encourage you to explore the power of data visualization. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas of high need, assess resource allocation, and ultimately, improve healthcare access and outcomes for COPD patients.