16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.92 percent of the residents in 16740 has some form of health insurance. 55.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.34 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 16740 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 236 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16740. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 158 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 344 health care providers accessible to residents in 16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care in Mount Jewett (ZIP Code 16740)

Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 16740 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge when assessing the availability and quality of primary care, especially concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis aims to provide a "COPD Score" perspective, evaluating the landscape of healthcare resources, physician accessibility, and the integration of modern technologies to support COPD patients. The score is not a single numerical value but a composite of factors influencing care delivery.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in accessible and competent primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Mount Jewett is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face shortages. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. A low physician-to-patient ratio, therefore, negatively impacts the COPD Score. Access to specialists, such as pulmonologists, is also crucial. The distance to specialists and the availability of timely consultations directly affect the quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool, particularly in geographically isolated areas. Its adoption rate among primary care physicians in Mount Jewett significantly impacts the COPD Score. Practices embracing telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management support, demonstrate a proactive approach to patient care. This is especially beneficial for COPD patients, who can experience exacerbations requiring prompt intervention. Telemedicine can facilitate timely interventions and reduce the need for costly emergency room visits.

Mental health support is another crucial element. COPD often co-exists with anxiety and depression, impacting patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the primary care network or through readily accessible referral pathways is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening and provide access to mental health services score higher on the COPD Score.

The quality of care provided by individual practices varies. Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors. Does the practice have a dedicated COPD management program? Do they offer patient education on COPD self-management techniques, including proper inhaler use and breathing exercises? Are they actively involved in patient education and support groups? Do they participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD? Practices demonstrating a commitment to these areas would receive a higher COPD Score.

The presence of ancillary services also impacts the COPD Score. Access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, smoking cessation programs, and respiratory therapists is critical for comprehensive COPD care. The availability of these services within the local healthcare ecosystem significantly enhances the support available to patients.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another factor. EHRs facilitate better communication between healthcare providers, allowing for seamless information sharing and improved care coordination. Practices with robust EHR systems that can track patient progress, manage medications, and generate reminders for follow-up appointments contribute to a higher COPD Score.

The economic factors in the region also play a role. The affordability of healthcare, including insurance coverage and medication costs, impacts access to care. The COPD Score considers the financial burden on patients, as this directly affects their ability to receive necessary treatment.

The overall COPD Score for Mount Jewett, considering these factors, is likely to be moderate. The rural nature of the area presents challenges in physician availability and access to specialized services. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the presence of dedicated practices could mitigate some of these challenges. The availability of mental health resources and ancillary services will be key differentiators.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Jewett and the surrounding areas, including specific physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of primary care resources and their accessibility.