16263, Yatesboro, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16263, Yatesboro, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.87 percent of the residents in 16263 has some form of health insurance. 53.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.68 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 16263 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16263. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 55 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 122 health care providers accessible to residents in 16263, Yatesboro, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Yatesboro, PA (ZIP Code 16263)

Analyzing the landscape of COPD care within Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16263) requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to assess not just the raw number of physicians, but also the quality of care, accessibility, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis, designed as a "COPD Score," will evaluate key factors impacting patient outcomes, focusing on the availability of primary care, specialist access, and the utilization of innovative healthcare solutions.

The foundation of effective COPD management is a strong primary care base. Yatesboro's "primary care availability" is the first crucial element. This involves determining the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate follow-up care, and increased hospitalizations for COPD exacerbations. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local hospital systems, is essential to determine this ratio. A higher ratio, where more physicians are available per patient, would be a positive indicator for our COPD Score.

Specialist access is another critical component. COPD management frequently requires pulmonary specialists. Assessing the proximity and availability of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists is vital. This includes evaluating the distance patients must travel to access these specialists, the wait times for appointments, and the availability of specialized diagnostic tools like pulmonary function testing (PFT). A lack of readily available specialists can hinder timely diagnosis and treatment adjustments, leading to poorer patient outcomes. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with a dedicated respiratory department would significantly improve the score.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care provided by existing practices must be considered. This involves examining factors like the adoption of evidence-based treatment guidelines, the use of patient education materials, and the implementation of chronic disease management programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing education on medication adherence, smoking cessation, and self-management techniques, will receive a higher score. Reviewing patient satisfaction surveys and assessing the availability of support groups or educational programs are also important.

Telemedicine adoption is a modern metric that can significantly impact COPD care. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and patient monitoring, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Assessing the availability of telehealth services within Yatesboro is crucial. Does the local hospital offer telehealth consultations? Do primary care practices utilize remote monitoring devices to track patient vital signs and symptoms? Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce hospital readmissions, and enhance patient outcomes.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the integration of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore a vital component of comprehensive COPD care. Assessing the presence of mental health providers in the area, the availability of mental health support within primary care practices, and the integration of mental health screenings into routine care are crucial for our COPD Score.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare ecosystem. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in COPD care. This might include practices that have implemented innovative programs, achieved high patient satisfaction scores, or demonstrated a strong track record of positive patient outcomes. These standout practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, driving improvements in the overall quality of care. This would involve looking at patient outcomes, such as hospitalization rates and emergency room visits.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources to assist patients in managing their COPD. This includes assessing the availability of respiratory therapists, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and smoking cessation programs. These resources can play a crucial role in helping patients manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and prevent exacerbations. The existence of these resources would significantly improve the score.

Finally, the analysis will consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact COPD care. This includes assessing the percentage of the population living below the poverty line, the level of health insurance coverage, and the access to transportation. These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans. Addressing these socioeconomic barriers is essential for ensuring equitable access to high-quality COPD care.

The "COPD Score" for Yatesboro, PA (ZIP code 16263) is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment that reflects the ever-changing landscape of healthcare. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients with COPD receive the best possible care. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of COPD care in Yatesboro and highlights areas where improvements can be made. The ultimate goal is to improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

To visualize the data and gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Yatesboro and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for detailed geographic analysis, enabling you to pinpoint physician locations, assess access to specialists, and identify areas with limited resources.