16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.98 percent of the residents in 16255 has some form of health insurance. 38.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.55 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 16255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 385 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16255. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 354 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 438 health care providers accessible to residents in 16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16255 and Primary Care Availability in Sligo

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within the Sligo area (ZIP Code 16255) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will attempt to assess the landscape of medical professionals, resources, and access points for individuals battling COPD, providing a COPD Score estimation based on publicly available data and general industry benchmarks. The objective is to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure and suggest areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on the availability of qualified primary care physicians. In Sligo, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in rural areas like Sligo often reveals a lower density of physicians compared to urban centers. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for COPD. The impact is especially acute for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options, which are common challenges for individuals managing COPD.

To gauge the quality of care, it's necessary to examine the practices within the ZIP code. Determining which practices are considered "standout" requires an evaluation of several factors. This includes the presence of board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized COPD training, the availability of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT), and a demonstrated commitment to patient education and support programs. Practices actively participating in COPD research or utilizing evidence-based treatment protocols would also score higher. Unfortunately, without a detailed audit of each practice, it's difficult to definitively name "standout" facilities. However, it's possible to identify practices that are part of larger healthcare networks, as these often have access to more resources and specialized expertise.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine offers opportunities for remote monitoring, medication management, and virtual consultations, which can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients living in rural areas. Assessing the level of telemedicine integration involves determining if local practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices (like pulse oximeters), and digital platforms for patient communication. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide timely and accessible care, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced hospital readmissions.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the primary care setting or through referrals is therefore essential. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through strong referral networks, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes assessing the availability of support groups, educational programs, and access to mental health medications.

The COPD Score, in this context, is a composite measure of the factors mentioned above. It's a qualitative assessment, not a precise numerical score, due to the limitations of publicly available data. The score is a reflection of the overall healthcare environment within the ZIP code.

**Estimating the COPD Score for 16255:**

Based on the general trends and challenges faced by rural communities, the COPD Score for Sligo (16255) is likely to be moderate. The physician-to-patient ratio is probably lower than the national average, potentially leading to access challenges. The availability of specialized COPD expertise may be limited, and the adoption of telemedicine could be variable. The integration of mental health services might also be an area for improvement. However, the presence of larger healthcare networks and the increasing emphasis on telehealth could provide some positive factors.

**Specific Considerations:**

* **Physician Density:** The low population density of the area, coupled with the potential for an aging population, likely creates a strain on the existing primary care resources.
* **Specialized Expertise:** The availability of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists within the immediate vicinity is crucial.
* **Telemedicine Infrastructure:** The reliability of internet connectivity in the area will impact the effectiveness of telemedicine services.
* **Patient Support:** Patient education programs, support groups, and access to respiratory therapists are vital for effective COPD management.

**Improving the COPD Score:**

To improve the COPD Score, several steps can be taken:

* **Recruiting Physicians:** Incentivizing physicians to practice in the area, particularly those with expertise in pulmonary medicine, is essential.
* **Expanding Telemedicine:** Promoting and supporting the adoption of telemedicine technologies by local practices.
* **Strengthening Mental Health Services:** Integrating mental health services into primary care settings and expanding access to mental health professionals.
* **Enhancing Patient Education:** Providing comprehensive patient education programs about COPD management, including self-care techniques, medication adherence, and symptom management.
* **Community Partnerships:** Fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local pharmacies to improve access to care and support services.

This analysis provides a general overview of the COPD care landscape in Sligo (16255). A more in-depth assessment would require detailed data collection, including surveys of local practices, interviews with healthcare providers, and analysis of patient outcomes.

**Take Action:**

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sligo and surrounding areas, including the specific locations of healthcare providers, access to resources, and the potential impact of these factors on COPD care, consider utilizing the power of interactive mapping. **Contact CartoChrome maps today to explore the possibilities and visualize the data that can empower you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.**