16692, Westover, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16692, Westover, Pennsylvania is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.03 percent of the residents in 16692 has some form of health insurance. 40.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.71 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 16692 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 266 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16692. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 118 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 177 health care providers accessible to residents in 16692, Westover, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Westover, PA (ZIP Code 16692)

The analysis delves into the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) and associated resources within Westover, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16692), with a specific focus on factors relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management. This includes evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health support, all crucial for effective COPD care. The goal is to provide a COPD Score assessment, reflecting the overall suitability of the local healthcare environment for COPD patients.

The foundation of any COPD Score is access to qualified physicians. ZIP code 16692, a rural area, likely faces challenges common to such regions: a potential scarcity of PCPs. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors for the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and increased difficulty in establishing a strong doctor-patient relationship – all detrimental to COPD management. This analysis requires data on the total population of 16692 and the number of actively practicing PCPs within the ZIP code or a reasonable radius. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide this information. A higher ratio would contribute positively to the COPD Score, indicating better access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the practicing physicians are essential. Are the PCPs board-certified in internal medicine or family medicine? Board certification signifies a commitment to specialized knowledge and ongoing professional development, which is beneficial for managing complex conditions like COPD. Do the practices offer specialized services relevant to COPD care? This might include pulmonary function testing (PFT) capabilities, on-site respiratory therapists, or smoking cessation programs. The availability of these services within the practice significantly enhances the COPD Score. Practices that offer comprehensive COPD management, including regular monitoring of lung function, medication management, and patient education, will receive higher marks.

Telemedicine is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas. Its adoption by local practices is a significant factor in the COPD Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for those with breathing difficulties. This is particularly beneficial for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to online patient portals, would contribute positively to the COPD Score. The ease of access to these services is also a factor. Is the telemedicine platform user-friendly? Are appointments easily scheduled?

Mental health support is another 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 resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is crucial. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will receive higher marks. The integration of mental health services directly impacts the COPD Score, reflecting the importance of a holistic approach to patient care.

Standout practices within 16692, if any, should be identified. This requires a review of online reviews, patient testimonials, and potentially direct contact with local healthcare providers. Practices that are known for their patient-centered care, their responsiveness to patient needs, and their commitment to COPD management should be highlighted. These practices serve as models for other providers and contribute significantly to the overall COPD Score. The analysis should identify any practices that have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in COPD care.

The analysis would also consider the availability of resources outside of the primary care setting. Are there local pulmonary rehabilitation programs? Are there support groups for COPD patients? The availability of these resources complements the care provided by PCPs and contributes positively to the COPD Score. The analysis should identify and assess the accessibility of these resources.

The overall COPD Score would be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed above. It would provide a snapshot of the local healthcare environment's suitability for COPD patients. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater likelihood of positive patient outcomes. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine adoption, and enhancing mental health support.

The analysis would also consider the presence of any hospital systems or specialty clinics that serve the area. The proximity of these facilities, their expertise in respiratory care, and their ability to provide emergency services are all relevant to the COPD Score. The analysis should assess the availability and accessibility of these resources.

The analysis would need to be updated regularly, as the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new resources can all impact the COPD Score. Regular updates would ensure that the score remains accurate and relevant.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Westover, PA (ZIP code 16692) is a complex assessment. It is based on a detailed analysis of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of other relevant support services. The final score provides a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment and highlighting areas where improvements are needed to enhance the quality of COPD care.

For a visual representation of these healthcare assets and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Understanding the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and available resources can significantly improve your understanding of the healthcare landscape in Westover and beyond.