16154, Transfer, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16154, Transfer, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.91 percent of the residents in 16154 has some form of health insurance. 43.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.47 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 16154 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 247 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16154. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 495 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,156 health care providers accessible to residents in 16154, Transfer, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Resources in ZIP Code 16154

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care in ZIP Code 16154, encompassing the area of Transfer, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. A COPD Score, in this context, would assess the availability, accessibility, and quality of resources for individuals managing this debilitating respiratory illness. This analysis will delve into key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, painting a comprehensive picture of the care environment.

The foundation of any COPD Score lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Transfer, like many rural areas, likely faces challenges in physician density. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on the exact ratio within 16154 would be paramount, ideally broken down by specialty (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine). Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau would be crucial for this assessment.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of available practices is vital. Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating several factors. These include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like high-resolution CT scans. Practices that actively participate in COPD-focused research or clinical trials would also receive higher marks. Patient satisfaction surveys, readily available online through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient experiences with specific physicians and practices. Practices with consistently positive reviews, particularly regarding communication, empathy, and management of chronic conditions, would be considered superior.

Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to enhance COPD care, especially in areas with limited physician access. Its adoption within 16154 is a significant factor in the COPD Score. Practices utilizing telehealth for routine check-ups, medication management, and patient education would score higher. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and spirometers, which allow patients to track their lung function at home and share data with their physicians, is another crucial element. The ease of access to telehealth services, including the availability of technology support for patients, is also a key consideration.

COPD often co-exists with mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the COPD Score. This includes the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their COPD care protocols and provide referrals to mental health services would be considered more comprehensive. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also essential. Access to these resources can significantly improve the overall well-being and quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

The analysis must consider the accessibility of these resources. This includes the geographic proximity of physicians and specialists, the availability of transportation for patients, and the affordability of care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs would contribute to a higher score. The presence of community health centers or other safety-net providers, which often serve vulnerable populations, is also a positive indicator.

Furthermore, the COPD Score should incorporate data on hospital readmission rates for COPD exacerbations. High readmission rates often indicate inadequate disease management and a lack of effective preventative care. Practices that actively work to reduce readmission rates through patient education, medication adherence programs, and proactive monitoring would receive higher scores.

The analysis also considers the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about COPD, including its management, lifestyle modifications, and potential complications, are essential. This includes access to educational materials in multiple formats, such as brochures, videos, and online resources. The availability of certified respiratory therapists who can provide individualized education and support is also crucial.

Finally, the COPD Score should be dynamic, reflecting ongoing changes in the healthcare landscape. This requires regular updates to data and analysis. The score should be transparent, clearly outlining the methodology used and the sources of information. This transparency allows for informed decision-making by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD care environment in ZIP Code 16154 requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, accessibility, and patient outcomes. This analysis should inform patients about the best possible care options and help healthcare providers identify areas for improvement.

Want to visualize and explore the COPD care landscape in Transfer, PA, and other areas? Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare resources and access.