16428, North East, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16428, North East, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.81 percent of the residents in 16428 has some form of health insurance. 46.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.23 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 16428 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,131 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16428. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 459 health care providers accessible to residents in 16428, North East, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16428 and Primary Care Availability in North East, PA

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a significant public health concern, particularly in areas with older populations and environmental factors that can exacerbate respiratory issues. Assessing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) equipped to diagnose and manage COPD is crucial for residents of North East, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 16428 ZIP code. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive COPD Score, evaluating the current landscape of healthcare access, resources, and innovation within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of a strong COPD Score rests upon the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, immediately raises red flags. Data from reliable sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, needs to be analyzed to ascertain the precise number of PCPs practicing within the 16428 ZIP code and the estimated population served. This data provides the baseline for understanding access to care. A high ratio, conversely, suggests a greater availability of PCPs, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes through earlier diagnosis and more consistent management.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by these PCPs is paramount. This involves evaluating their experience, specialization, and commitment to ongoing professional development, especially in the realm of respiratory medicine. Are the PCPs board-certified in internal medicine or family medicine? Do they possess additional training or certifications related to pulmonary health? Do they actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) programs focused on COPD management? These factors significantly impact the ability of physicians to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to examine the operational capabilities of the primary care practices. Are appointments readily available, or are patients facing extended wait times? Do the practices utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient data and facilitate care coordination? The presence of robust EHR systems is crucial for efficient management of chronic conditions like COPD, enabling physicians to track patient progress, monitor medication adherence, and share information with specialists seamlessly.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for COPD patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or residing in rural areas. Remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management support can improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital readmissions. The analysis needs to determine the extent to which PCPs in the 16428 ZIP code are embracing telemedicine technologies. Are they offering virtual appointments? Do they utilize remote monitoring devices to track patient health indicators? The level of telemedicine adoption directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of care for COPD patients.

Mental health resources also play a crucial role in the COPD Score. COPD often coexists with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, which can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The analysis needs to assess the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and the broader community. Do the PCPs have access to mental health professionals for referrals? Are there integrated behavioral health programs within the practices? The integration of mental health services demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care and contributes positively to the COPD Score.

Specific practices within the 16428 ZIP code need to be evaluated for their standout features. Are there any practices that have implemented innovative COPD management programs, such as pulmonary rehabilitation or patient education initiatives? Do any practices have a particularly strong track record of patient outcomes for COPD patients? Identifying and highlighting these standout practices can serve as models for other providers and improve the overall quality of care in the area.

The COPD Score will be influenced by the availability of specialist care. While PCPs are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists and other specialists is essential for managing complex COPD cases. The analysis needs to assess the proximity of pulmonologists to the 16428 ZIP code and the ease with which patients can access their services. Long wait times for specialist appointments can hinder timely diagnosis and treatment, negatively impacting the COPD Score.

The availability of support groups and community resources is also a crucial component. COPD patients benefit from peer support and access to educational materials. The analysis needs to determine the presence of COPD support groups in the area and the availability of resources such as smoking cessation programs and respiratory therapy services. These resources empower patients to actively participate in their care and improve their overall well-being.

Finally, the COPD Score must consider the social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and housing conditions can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their COPD. The analysis needs to consider these factors and assess the availability of resources to address them, such as transportation assistance programs and housing support services.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for doctors in ZIP code 16428 and primary care availability in North East, PA, is a complex metric. It requires a comprehensive assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, physician qualifications, practice capabilities, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist access, community support, and social determinants of health. This detailed analysis will reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape and provide valuable insights for improving COPD care in the region.

For a visually rich and data-driven understanding of healthcare access and resources in the 16428 ZIP code, including the location of PCPs, specialists, and support services, explore the power of geospatial analysis. Visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape with interactive maps.

**Click here to explore the healthcare landscape in North East, PA, with CartoChrome maps!**