16025, Chicora, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16025, Chicora, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.50 percent of the residents in 16025 has some form of health insurance. 37.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.13 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 16025 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 992 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16025. An estimate of 14 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 937 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,494 health care providers accessible to residents in 16025, Chicora, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Chicora, PA (ZIP Code 16025)

Assessing the quality of COPD care and primary care availability within Chicora, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16025) requires a multifaceted analysis. This score, while not a definitive ranking, offers a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare landscape, focusing on key indicators that impact patient outcomes. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access:**

The foundation of COPD management lies in accessible primary care. A critical factor in this assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio within the defined geographic area. While precise, real-time data on this ratio requires access to proprietary databases, public information sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates. These estimates are derived from data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the population size of the service area. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential access challenges. Patients may experience longer wait times for appointments, limited choices, and difficulty establishing a consistent relationship with a PCP, all of which can negatively impact COPD management. Furthermore, the concentration of PCPs within the ZIP code is another factor. Are the physicians clustered in a single location, or are they dispersed throughout the community, improving access for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) in the area could help mitigate access issues by providing care to underserved populations.

**Practice Characteristics and COPD-Specific Care:**

The characteristics of primary care practices within 16025 are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients, especially those with chronic conditions like COPD? Do the practices have experience in managing COPD? This can be determined through a review of their websites, patient reviews, and publicly available information. Look for practices that specifically mention COPD management, offer pulmonary function testing (PFT), or have registered nurses or respiratory therapists on staff. The availability of these resources within the primary care setting can improve early diagnosis, disease management, and patient education. The presence of a dedicated COPD program, including patient education materials, smoking cessation programs, and access to pulmonary rehabilitation, would significantly enhance the score. The integration of a multidisciplinary approach, including collaboration with pulmonologists, physical therapists, and mental health professionals, is also highly desirable.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Remote Monitoring:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in COPD management, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 16025 is a key indicator. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education? Remote patient monitoring (RPM) technologies, such as connected spirometers or pulse oximeters, can provide valuable insights into a patient's condition and enable proactive interventions. The availability of these technologies can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce exacerbations, and improve overall quality of life. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care:**

COPD can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or in the broader community is therefore critical. Does the primary care practice offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? The integration of mental health screening and treatment into COPD care can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and access to psychiatric care are all important considerations. The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to COPD management, patient education, and the use of technology would receive higher scores. This includes practices that:

* Actively participate in COPD-specific quality improvement initiatives.
* Have a dedicated staff member responsible for COPD care coordination.
* Offer comprehensive patient education materials and programs.
* Utilize telemedicine for follow-up appointments and remote monitoring.
* Have integrated mental health services or established referral pathways.
* Actively engage patients in shared decision-making.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Assessing the COPD care landscape in Chicora, PA (ZIP code 16025) reveals the need for continuous improvement. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare environment, access to real-time data is crucial for a more precise assessment. The availability of primary care physicians, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all play a vital role in patient outcomes.

For a more detailed and visually driven analysis of healthcare access and resources in Chicora and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that allow users to explore healthcare data, identify access gaps, and visualize the distribution of healthcare providers. Explore how CartoChrome can help you understand the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.