16223, Distant, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16223, Distant, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16223 has some form of health insurance. 39.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.60 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 16223 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16223. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 15 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 891 health care providers accessible to residents in 16223, Distant, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Distant, PA (ZIP Code 16223) - Primary Care & Access

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management in Distant, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16223) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial for effective COPD care. Due to the limitations of publicly available data, this analysis relies on hypothetical scenarios and general trends, acknowledging the need for real-world verification.

The foundation of COPD care in any community rests upon the accessibility of primary care physicians. In a rural area like Distant, PA, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a critical factor. If the ratio is unfavorable, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, access to timely appointments and consistent follow-up care becomes challenging. This can significantly impact COPD management, as regular monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans are often necessary to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations. A low physician-to-patient ratio, on the other hand, would suggest a more favorable environment for COPD patients, with better access to routine check-ups, medication refills, and specialist referrals.

Identifying standout practices within the 16223 ZIP code is crucial. These practices might be characterized by several factors. They could have a dedicated focus on respiratory health, with physicians possessing advanced training or certifications in pulmonology or COPD management. They might also have a multidisciplinary approach, integrating nurses, respiratory therapists, and potentially even social workers into the care team. Further, standout practices would likely prioritize patient education, providing resources and support to help patients understand their condition, manage their symptoms, and adhere to their treatment plans. Such practices might also participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD, indicating a commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve COPD care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be particularly burdensome for individuals with breathing difficulties. Telemedicine can be used for routine check-ups, medication management, and even pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 16223 is a key indicator of access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to provide more convenient and accessible care options for COPD patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of comprehensive COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, primary care practices should have access to mental health professionals, either through on-site services or referral networks. This integration can help patients address the emotional challenges associated with COPD, improving their overall quality of life and potentially improving their adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within the 16223 ZIP code is thus a vital factor in assessing the overall quality of COPD care.

Assessing the specific practices within Distant, PA, requires a deeper dive. Hypothetically, we might find a practice that has a strong focus on preventative care, offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing and smoking cessation programs. This practice could also have a dedicated respiratory therapist on staff, providing education and support to patients. Another practice might have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities. Conversely, we might find practices that are understaffed, lacking specialized resources, and with limited access to mental health services. The variations between practices highlight the importance of a detailed assessment of the local healthcare landscape.

The COPD Score, in this context, would be a composite measure reflecting all the factors discussed. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with specialized expertise, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for COPD patients, with better access to care and resources. A lower score would suggest challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive COPD management. The score would be an evolving metric, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the addition of new practices, the adoption of new technologies, or the expansion of mental health services.

The impact of these factors on COPD patients in Distant, PA, is substantial. Patients with good access to primary care, specialized respiratory services, and mental health support are more likely to experience better symptom control, fewer exacerbations, and improved quality of life. Conversely, patients facing barriers to care may experience more frequent hospitalizations, a decline in their physical and mental health, and a reduced lifespan. Therefore, understanding the local healthcare landscape is paramount.

A comprehensive assessment of the primary care landscape in 16223 would require a thorough review of physician directories, practice websites, and patient reviews. It would also involve contacting local healthcare providers to gather information on their services, staffing, and technology adoption. Public health data, such as hospitalization rates for COPD, could also provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of local care.

In conclusion, the quality of COPD care in Distant, PA, is directly linked to the accessibility of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. A thorough assessment of these factors is crucial for identifying strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system and for developing strategies to improve care for COPD patients. The ability to visualize this data geographically would be invaluable.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Distant, PA, and to visualize the distribution of resources and potential gaps in care, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice specialties, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health services, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis. Contact CartoChrome to explore how their mapping solutions can help you understand and improve COPD care in your community.