15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.62 percent of the residents in 15824 has some form of health insurance. 41.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.73 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 15824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,112 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,110 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,700 health care providers accessible to residents in 15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Brockway, PA (ZIP Code 15824)

Brockway, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 15824, evaluating factors crucial to managing COPD, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced 'COPD Score' assessment, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities facing residents managing this debilitating respiratory condition.

The cornerstone of COPD management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in Brockway is paramount. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, the general trend in rural Pennsylvania often reveals a shortage of primary care physicians compared to urban areas. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnoses and treatment plans for COPD patients. The impact is magnified for those with limited mobility or transportation challenges, common realities for individuals with advanced COPD.

Identifying standout practices within the 15824 ZIP code is crucial. Practices demonstrating a commitment to COPD care typically exhibit several key characteristics. These include a proactive approach to patient education about COPD, comprehensive pulmonary function testing (spirometry) capabilities on-site, and a well-defined system for coordinating care with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. Practices that actively participate in COPD-focused research or quality improvement initiatives often demonstrate a higher standard of care. Furthermore, practices with dedicated COPD care coordinators, who assist patients with medication management, lifestyle modifications, and navigating the healthcare system, significantly improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve COPD care in Brockway. Telemedicine can bridge the geographical barriers often faced by rural residents, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, medication reviews, and remote monitoring services. The ability to remotely monitor vital signs, such as oxygen saturation and heart rate, can enable early detection of exacerbations, preventing hospitalizations and improving overall quality of life. However, the success of telemedicine hinges on factors such as reliable internet access, patient technological literacy, and the willingness of physicians to embrace virtual consultations.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is particularly relevant for COPD patients. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations it imposes, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive COPD care plan. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning opportunities.

Assessing the 'COPD Score' for Brockway involves weighing these factors. The analysis would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with demonstrated COPD expertise, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for COPD management, characterized by greater access to care, proactive disease management strategies, and comprehensive support services. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources.

The 'COPD Score' is not a static metric. It is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape, influenced by ongoing changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and evolving healthcare policies. Regular updates and assessments are essential to track progress and identify areas requiring further attention. Data-driven insights are critical to improve the care of patients in Brockway, PA.

In conclusion, the 'COPD Score' for Brockway, PA (15824), is a complex assessment reflecting the interplay of several factors. While specific data points are not available in real time, the analysis highlights the importance of accessible primary care, the need for practices to demonstrate expertise in COPD management, the potential of telemedicine, and the critical role of mental health support. Understanding these elements is key to improving the lives of individuals living with COPD in this rural community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Brockway and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and available resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare access, helping to inform decision-making and improve the delivery of care.