16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.82 percent of the residents in 16114 has some form of health insurance. 31.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.36 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 16114 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16114. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 129 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,685 health care providers accessible to residents in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16114 and Primary Care Availability in Clarks Mills

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in and around Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16114) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors crucial to effective COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of primary care access.

The first critical element is physician density. ZIP Code 16114, encompassing Clarks Mills and surrounding areas, likely presents a challenge in this regard. Rural areas often experience a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased difficulty in establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care provider. This is particularly problematic for COPD patients, who require regular monitoring and adjustments to their treatment plans. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors serving a larger population, directly impacts the ability to provide timely and comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the quality of care is not solely determined by the number of physicians. Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employing evidence-based practices for COPD management. This includes regular spirometry testing to assess lung function, comprehensive medication reviews, and patient education on lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation and pulmonary rehabilitation. Finding practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and offer specialized COPD programs can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals living with this chronic condition. Unfortunately, pinpointing such practices requires a deeper dive into local healthcare provider data, including patient reviews, and practice profiles.

Telemedicine adoption presents another critical consideration. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, offers a powerful tool for managing COPD, especially in rural settings. It can facilitate virtual consultations with physicians, allowing for medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and patient education without requiring patients to travel long distances. Telemedicine also supports remote monitoring of vital signs and lung function, enabling proactive intervention and reducing the likelihood of hospitalizations. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in 16114 is a crucial factor in assessing the overall COPD care landscape. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely better equipped to serve a wider patient base and provide more convenient and accessible care.

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. Primary care practices that recognize and address these mental health needs are better positioned to provide holistic care. This includes offering on-site mental health services, referring patients to qualified therapists, and educating patients about coping mechanisms and support groups. The availability of these resources is a crucial element in the overall quality of COPD care. Without addressing the psychological impact of the disease, treatment adherence and overall quality of life can suffer.

Evaluating the primary care landscape in 16114 requires a nuanced understanding of these factors. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of primary care physicians, with a high physician-to-patient ratio, offering comprehensive COPD management services. These services should include evidence-based treatment plans, regular monitoring, patient education, and access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The adoption of telemedicine is also crucial for expanding access to care and improving patient convenience. Furthermore, the integration of mental health resources is essential for addressing the psychological impact of COPD and improving overall patient well-being.

Unfortunately, obtaining precise data on these factors for a specific ZIP Code can be challenging. Publicly available information may be limited, and a comprehensive assessment often requires access to proprietary healthcare data, patient surveys, and direct contact with local healthcare providers. It's important to note that this analysis is based on general principles and common challenges in rural healthcare settings. Specific data would be required to provide a definitive COPD score for the area.

To get a clearer picture of the situation, one could investigate the presence of any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) in the area. These clinics often serve underserved populations and may offer a broader range of services, including specialized COPD care and mental health support. Investigating the availability of these resources would provide valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of care in the region. Furthermore, analyzing local hospital systems and their affiliations with primary care practices would shed light on the potential for coordinated care and access to specialist services, such as pulmonologists.

The impact of the healthcare system on COPD patients extends beyond the immediate clinical setting. Factors like transportation, social support networks, and access to affordable medications also play a significant role in patient outcomes. The ability of patients to access these resources can significantly influence their ability to manage their condition effectively. Investigating the availability of these resources in Clarks Mills and the surrounding areas would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by COPD patients.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD care landscape in 16114 involves evaluating physician density, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and understanding the integration of mental health resources. The availability of these resources, coupled with access to transportation, social support, and affordable medications, directly impacts the quality of life for individuals managing COPD. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding these factors, a more detailed investigation, utilizing specific local data, is needed to provide a definitive COPD score and inform strategies for improving care.

Are you interested in exploring the healthcare landscape of 16114 in greater detail? Would you like to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, assess patient demographics, and identify potential areas for improvement? CartoChrome maps can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in Clarks Mills and beyond.