16245, Oak Ridge, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16245, Oak Ridge, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.72 percent of the residents in 16245 has some form of health insurance. 36.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.70 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 16245 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 64 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16245. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 58 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 872 health care providers accessible to residents in 16245, Oak Ridge, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within ZIP code 16245, focusing on physician availability, primary care resources in Oak Ridge, and related factors. This evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals managing COPD in this specific geographic area.

The core of effective COPD management hinges on access to qualified primary care physicians. Evaluating this access necessitates examining the physician-to-patient ratio within Oak Ridge. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards provide valuable insights. These sources can reveal the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care, allowing physicians to dedicate more time to each patient and potentially leading to improved outcomes.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This includes the availability of specialized knowledge and experience in COPD management. This assessment would ideally identify practices with a demonstrable commitment to COPD care, such as those employing certified respiratory therapists, offering pulmonary function testing (PFT) on-site, or participating in COPD-specific disease management programs. These features are indicative of a practice that prioritizes comprehensive care for patients with this chronic condition.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key factor in assessing COPD care. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for COPD patients, especially those with mobility limitations or residing in geographically isolated areas. Telehealth appointments can facilitate regular check-ins, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. Practices actively embracing telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, and utilizing remote monitoring devices demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. The availability of these services is a significant indicator of a practice's forward-thinking approach to patient care.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is particularly relevant for COPD patients. The chronic nature of the disease, the breathing difficulties, and the potential for exacerbations can significantly impact mental well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening, provide on-site counseling, or have established relationships with mental health specialists demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the importance of addressing both physical and psychological needs.

Analyzing the specific practices within ZIP code 16245 requires a closer look. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors: the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, the presence of dedicated COPD management programs, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health services. Practices that excel in these areas are likely to offer superior care to COPD patients. This assessment should also include patient reviews and satisfaction ratings, which provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

The assessment of primary care availability in Oak Ridge must consider the geographic distribution of practices. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access challenges for patients living in more remote locations? Are there transportation options available for patients who may not be able to drive themselves? Addressing these logistical considerations is essential to ensure equitable access to care for all COPD patients in the area.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the availability of respiratory therapists and other allied health professionals. These professionals play a vital role in COPD management, providing education on breathing techniques, medication administration, and lifestyle modifications. The presence of these resources within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals significantly enhances the quality of COPD care.

Another important aspect of COPD care is patient education. Practices that actively engage in patient education, providing information on disease management, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications, are more likely to empower patients to take an active role in their care. This can lead to improved outcomes and a better quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is another crucial element. These programs offer structured exercise, education, and support to help COPD patients improve their lung function, manage their symptoms, and enhance their overall well-being. Identifying the availability of these programs, their accessibility, and their integration with primary care practices is essential.

The analysis should also consider the presence of support groups and community resources for COPD patients. These groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support. Identifying these resources and their accessibility can significantly enhance the overall care experience for COPD patients.

Finally, the long-term sustainability of COPD care in Oak Ridge must be considered. This involves assessing the availability of resources, the commitment of healthcare providers, and the ongoing efforts to improve the quality of care. The analysis should also consider the potential impact of future changes in healthcare policy or funding on the availability of COPD care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 16245, including the locations of primary care practices, the distribution of healthcare resources, and the geographic accessibility of care, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Utilize the tools to visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the COPD care environment in Oak Ridge.