16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16727 has some form of health insurance. 9.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.34 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 16727 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 91 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16727. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 397 health care providers accessible to residents in 16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Derrick City, PA (ZIP Code 16727)

Analyzing the landscape of COPD care within Derrick City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16727) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on factors pertinent to COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a COPD Score assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Derrick City, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health should be consulted to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. A low ratio, ideally below the national average, would signify a more favorable environment for COPD patients.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves evaluating the clinical expertise of local physicians, their commitment to evidence-based COPD management, and their patient-centered approach. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Lung Association or the COPD Foundation, are likely to be more attuned to best practices. Furthermore, the presence of board-certified pulmonologists within a primary care practice or a close referral network is a significant asset. Patient reviews and testimonials, available through online platforms, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly crucial, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telehealth can facilitate remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption within Derrick City's primary care practices involves determining the availability of virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring capabilities (e.g., connected spirometers or pulse oximeters), and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows. Practices that embrace telehealth demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management.

The significant comorbidity of COPD with mental health conditions underscores the importance of integrated mental health resources. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation, which can negatively impact their quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. A strong COPD Score requires an evaluation of the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referral networks. This includes assessing the presence of on-site therapists or counselors, partnerships with mental health providers, and the integration of mental health screening tools into routine patient assessments. Practices that prioritize mental well-being demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Evaluating the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is also essential. Pulmonary rehabilitation, a comprehensive program involving exercise, education, and support, is a cornerstone of COPD management. The presence of such programs within Derrick City, or in nearby communities with convenient access, is a positive indicator. This involves assessing the availability of certified respiratory therapists, exercise specialists, and educational resources focused on COPD self-management.

Beyond these core elements, other factors contribute to a robust COPD Score. These include the availability of smoking cessation programs, access to respiratory therapists, and the presence of a dedicated COPD support group. The local pharmacy landscape, including the availability of necessary medications and the expertise of pharmacists in COPD management, also plays a role.

To synthesize these factors into a COPD Score, a weighted scoring system can be employed. Each element, such as physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration, is assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The practice or healthcare ecosystem is then scored on each element, and the weighted scores are aggregated to produce an overall COPD Score. This score provides a quantitative assessment of the quality and accessibility of COPD care within Derrick City.

The final COPD Score should be interpreted with caution. It is a snapshot of the current healthcare environment and should be updated regularly. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, and changes in physician staffing, technology adoption, and program availability can impact the score over time.

Furthermore, the COPD Score should be used as a tool for improvement. Identifying areas of weakness can inform targeted interventions, such as promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health services, or advocating for the establishment of pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

Finally, the COPD Score can empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, patients can actively participate in their care, seek out providers who meet their needs, and advocate for improved services.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, explore the power of location intelligence. CartoChrome maps provide a comprehensive and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.