15736, Elderton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15736, Elderton, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.11 percent of the residents in 15736 has some form of health insurance. 51.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.82 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 15736 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 43 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15736. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 115 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,391 health care providers accessible to residents in 15736, Elderton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Elderton, PA (ZIP Code 15736)

Analyzing the availability of quality COPD care within Elderton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15736) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and identifies potential areas for improvement. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

Elderton, a small community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare provision. The relative isolation of the area can impact the availability of specialized medical services, including those crucial for COPD management. The overall 'COPD Score' for Elderton, therefore, is influenced by the existing infrastructure and the proactive measures taken by local healthcare providers to overcome these limitations.

Primary care availability forms the bedrock of COPD management. Regular check-ups, medication management, and early intervention are all facilitated through accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). A high 'COPD Score' is directly correlated with a robust primary care network. In Elderton, the number of PCPs, their patient load, and their willingness to accept new patients are all critical factors. Research into local healthcare directories, insurance provider listings, and patient reviews is necessary to gauge the ease of access to primary care. Any bottlenecks in access, such as long wait times for appointments or a shortage of PCPs, would negatively impact the 'COPD Score'.

Physician-to-patient ratios are another key metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially compromise the quality of care. Conversely, a favorable ratio allows physicians more time to dedicate to individual patient needs, including the complex requirements of COPD management. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 15736 requires data collection and analysis, comparing the number of PCPs and pulmonologists to the local population, specifically the demographic most at risk for COPD. This data directly impacts the 'COPD Score'.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve COPD care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to remotely consult with healthcare professionals, monitor their condition, and receive necessary support without the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those living far from medical facilities. The 'COPD Score' benefits significantly from the presence of telemedicine services. Investigating which local practices offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups is crucial. Practices actively embracing technology to improve patient care will see their 'COPD Score' increase.

Mental health resources are also a crucial component of COPD care. Living with COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Integrated care, where mental health services are readily available alongside physical healthcare, can significantly improve patient outcomes. The 'COPD Score' considers the accessibility of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the local healthcare system. Assessing whether local primary care practices have integrated mental health services or readily available referral pathways is essential. The integration of mental health support enhances the overall quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within Elderton requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings and patient outcomes. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management through specialized programs, patient education initiatives, and proactive preventative care will receive a higher 'COPD Score'. This involves reviewing patient testimonials, assessing the availability of COPD-specific resources (e.g., pulmonary rehabilitation programs), and evaluating the practice’s commitment to ongoing professional development for its healthcare providers. Practices actively seeking to improve their services will contribute positively to the overall 'COPD Score'.

The assessment also considers the availability of respiratory therapists and other allied healthcare professionals. These professionals play a vital role in COPD management, providing pulmonary rehabilitation, breathing exercises, and patient education. The presence of these support services within the local healthcare system is essential for a comprehensive approach to COPD care. The 'COPD Score' is influenced by the availability and accessibility of these critical resources.

The 'COPD Score' for Elderton, PA, is ultimately a reflection of the community's ability to provide accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered care for individuals living with COPD. The score is not a static measure, but rather a dynamic assessment that can evolve as healthcare providers adapt and innovate. The score can be improved by addressing identified gaps in care, embracing technology, and fostering a collaborative approach to healthcare delivery.

To visualize and better understand the healthcare landscape in Elderton and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the distribution of resources, and the potential impact of geographic factors, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the 'COPD Score' and the factors influencing it.