15925, Cassandra, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 15925, Cassandra, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.08 percent of the residents in 15925 has some form of health insurance. 28.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.71 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 15925 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 47 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15925. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 24 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,246 health care providers accessible to residents in 15925, Cassandra, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Cassandra, PA (ZIP Code 15925)

This analysis delves into the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within the geographical confines of Cassandra, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on ZIP code 15925. We will assess the availability and quality of primary care, considering factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all within the context of this rural community.

The cornerstone of effective COPD management is consistent and accessible primary care. In Cassandra, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios offers a crucial starting point. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. This situation can be particularly detrimental for COPD patients, who require regular monitoring and prompt intervention for exacerbations. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards would be necessary to determine the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 15925. This baseline data would then inform the subsequent analysis.

Identifying standout practices within the Cassandra area is essential. These practices might demonstrate superior patient outcomes, innovative approaches to care, or a commitment to patient education. Factors to consider would include the practice's adherence to established COPD guidelines, the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFT) within the practice or through readily accessible referral networks, and the presence of dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses trained in COPD management. Investigating patient reviews and testimonials, where available, could offer insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in local COPD support groups or community outreach programs would be viewed favorably.

Telemedicine presents a potentially transformative solution for COPD care in rural areas like Cassandra. Its adoption allows patients to access healthcare professionals remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in 15925 is vital. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and the use of telehealth platforms for medication management and patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer more convenient and accessible care, especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the integration of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health support within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referral networks is crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in addressing the psychological challenges associated with chronic respiratory illnesses. Examining the integration of mental health services into the care plans of COPD patients is an important factor in the overall COPD score.

Further, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs in or near Cassandra would significantly impact the score. These programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, can improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the overall quality of life for COPD patients. The presence of such programs, and their accessibility to patients within the 15925 ZIP code, is a key indicator of the quality of COPD care.

The analysis would also assess the practice's commitment to patient education. COPD patients need to understand their condition, medications, and lifestyle modifications. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education materials, offer individual counseling, and facilitate access to support groups are more likely to promote patient self-management and improve outcomes.

Finally, the analysis would consider the overall healthcare infrastructure within the community. This includes the availability of hospital beds, emergency services, and access to specialized respiratory care. The presence of a well-coordinated healthcare system, with clear referral pathways and effective communication between providers, is essential for providing comprehensive COPD care. The proximity to a hospital with a dedicated pulmonary department would be a positive factor.

In conclusion, the COPD score for primary care in Cassandra, PA (15925) is a multifaceted assessment. It relies on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs and patient education. The presence of a well-coordinated healthcare system, with clear referral pathways and effective communication between providers, is essential for providing comprehensive COPD care. The overall score would reflect the collective strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in supporting patients with COPD.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cassandra, PA, and to explore the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians and hospitals, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing geographical data and identifying areas with limited access to care.