15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15847 has some form of health insurance. 66.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.67 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 15847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 11 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,253 health care providers accessible to residents in 15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Knox Dale, PA (ZIP Code 15847)

Assessing the quality of COPD care within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in and around Knox Dale, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15847), specifically examining their capacity to address the needs of COPD patients. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical components of comprehensive COPD management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Knox Dale, and the surrounding areas, is a crucial starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often experience a shortage of PCPs. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses for conditions like COPD. Analyzing the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate vicinity, alongside the estimated population, provides a baseline understanding of access. Furthermore, this analysis must consider the age distribution of the population, as COPD prevalence increases with age. A higher proportion of older residents necessitates a greater availability of specialized respiratory care and support services.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their adherence to established COPD treatment guidelines, their utilization of evidence-based therapies, and their patient outcomes. This requires access to data that is often proprietary, but publicly available information such as patient reviews, practice accreditations, and participation in quality improvement programs can provide valuable insights. Practices that actively participate in initiatives focused on COPD management, such as smoking cessation programs or pulmonary rehabilitation, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption among PCPs in Knox Dale is a critical factor in this analysis. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of COPD patients, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, improve patient convenience, and potentially reduce the burden on patients with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients provides a clear picture of its impact on COPD care.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health is crucial for COPD patients. Chronic respiratory illnesses can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is therefore essential. This includes the availability of on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, and the implementation of screening tools for mental health conditions. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their COPD patients demonstrate a commitment to holistic care, improving overall patient outcomes.

Specific practices in and around Knox Dale warrant closer examination. While pinpointing specific names without direct access to data is challenging, the presence of larger, multi-specialty practices, or those affiliated with larger healthcare systems, often indicates a greater capacity to provide comprehensive care. These practices may have access to more resources, including specialized equipment, trained staff, and integrated mental health services. Analyzing the services offered by these practices, their patient demographics, and their participation in quality improvement initiatives provides a more nuanced understanding of their impact on COPD care.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs, is a key indicator of the overall quality of COPD care. Pulmonary rehabilitation, a structured program that combines exercise, education, and support, is a cornerstone of COPD management. The presence of such programs within the local area, or the ease of access to programs located in nearby towns, significantly impacts patient outcomes. Assessing the accessibility of these programs, the qualifications of the staff, and the program's success rates provides further insights into the quality of care.

The geographic challenges inherent in rural healthcare delivery must also be considered. The distance patients must travel to access care, the availability of transportation options, and the presence of emergency services all impact the overall experience of COPD patients. Analyzing the proximity of practices to patient residences, the availability of public transportation, and the efficiency of local emergency services provides a comprehensive understanding of the logistical challenges faced by patients.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD score for doctors in ZIP code 15847 requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of ancillary services all contribute to the overall quality of care. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding the landscape of COPD care in Knox Dale, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of publicly available data. A more in-depth assessment would require access to patient outcomes data, practice-specific information, and direct engagement with local healthcare providers.

For a more detailed and visually compelling analysis of healthcare access and resources in Knox Dale, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, consider utilizing the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform allows for the visualization of complex data, providing a clear and concise understanding of the healthcare landscape.