16254, Shippenville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16254, Shippenville, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.77 percent of the residents in 16254 has some form of health insurance. 40.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.49 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 16254 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 831 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16254. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 671 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 515 health care providers accessible to residents in 16254, Shippenville, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Shippenville, PA (ZIP Code 16254)

Analyzing the COPD landscape within Shippenville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16254) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the specific resources and infrastructure in place to manage and treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis will delve into the physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the integration of mental health resources, providing a comprehensive 'COPD Score' assessment.

Shippenville, a small community in Clarion County, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. One of the primary concerns is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures for this specific ZIP code are difficult to obtain without dedicated research, the overall physician density in Clarion County is likely lower than the national average. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a potentially aging population, increasing the risk of delayed diagnoses, inadequate follow-up care, and ultimately, poorer COPD management.

Primary care availability is crucial for COPD patients. Regular check-ups, medication management, and early intervention are critical for slowing disease progression and improving quality of life. The presence of primary care physicians (PCPs) willing to specialize or show a strong interest in COPD management significantly impacts the 'COPD Score'. Practices that actively engage in patient education, offer pulmonary function testing (PFTs) on-site, and collaborate with pulmonologists will receive higher ratings. These practices become vital hubs for COPD care within the community.

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. First, the presence of board-certified pulmonologists within a reasonable travel distance is essential. Second, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient progress, manage medication adherence, and coordinate care with specialists demonstrate a commitment to quality. Third, practices that participate in COPD-focused research or quality improvement initiatives also stand out. Finally, patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience, which is a crucial component of the 'COPD Score'.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be particularly challenging for individuals with COPD. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and telehealth education programs will be highly rated. This technology can improve patient access to care, enhance medication management, and reduce hospital readmissions.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, will receive higher scores. This integration of mental health support is a key factor in improving overall patient outcomes and quality of life.

The 'COPD Score' for Shippenville, PA (16254) is likely to be influenced by the limited availability of primary care physicians, the potential for longer travel distances to specialists, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption. The presence of practices actively engaged in COPD management, offering comprehensive care, and integrating mental health resources will significantly improve the score. The community’s ability to support these practices and advocate for improved healthcare access will be crucial for improving the health outcomes of COPD patients.

To improve the COPD score, the community should prioritize initiatives that increase physician recruitment, promote telemedicine adoption, and expand access to mental health services. Public awareness campaigns about COPD, encouraging early diagnosis, and promoting smoking cessation programs are also crucial. Collaboration between local hospitals, primary care practices, and community organizations is essential for creating a robust COPD care network.

The absence of readily available data, such as specific physician-to-patient ratios and details about practice offerings, makes it difficult to provide a precise 'COPD Score' without further research. A comprehensive assessment would involve surveying local practices, analyzing patient data, and evaluating the availability of resources.

The 'COPD Score' is not just a numerical value; it reflects the overall health and well-being of individuals living with COPD. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in place to support these patients. Addressing the identified weaknesses and building upon the strengths will improve the quality of life for those living with COPD in Shippenville and the surrounding areas.

The ultimate goal is to create a supportive healthcare environment that empowers COPD patients to manage their condition effectively and live fulfilling lives. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and the patients themselves. The focus should be on providing comprehensive, patient-centered care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of individuals living with COPD.

The availability of detailed, geographically relevant healthcare data is often a challenge. However, understanding the spatial distribution of resources, such as the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and support services, is crucial for improving healthcare access.

Are you interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of Shippenville and beyond? Explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps to uncover valuable insights and make informed decisions.