16830, Clearfield, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16830, Clearfield, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.70 percent of the residents in 16830 has some form of health insurance. 52.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.12 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 16830 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16830. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,724 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 677 health care providers accessible to residents in 16830, Clearfield, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16830 & Primary Care in Clearfield

Clearfield, Pennsylvania, a community nestled in the heart of the state, faces unique healthcare challenges, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 16830, which encompasses Clearfield, and assesses their capacity to address the needs of COPD patients. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the integration of mental health resources, all critical factors in delivering effective COPD care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Clearfield, the ratio of PCPs to the general population is a key determinant of how readily individuals can access care. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased pressure on existing providers, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like COPD. Publicly available data, such as those from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments, can provide insights into the specific PCP-to-population ratio within 16830. This data needs to be compared against regional and national averages to understand whether Clearfield is facing a shortage of primary care providers.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also crucial. Are the existing physicians concentrated in specific areas, leaving certain neighborhoods underserved? This geographic disparity can further exacerbate healthcare access challenges for vulnerable populations, including those with COPD, who may have mobility limitations or transportation difficulties. Analyzing the locations of primary care practices and comparing them to population density and demographic data provides a more nuanced understanding of healthcare accessibility within Clearfield.

Identifying standout practices is essential for understanding the quality of care available. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in COPD management often employ a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, nurses, and potentially mental health professionals. These practices may also have specialized equipment for diagnosing and monitoring COPD, such as spirometry machines and pulse oximeters. Moreover, they may implement evidence-based guidelines for COPD treatment, including patient education, smoking cessation programs, and personalized care plans. Patient reviews, practice websites, and professional affiliations can provide valuable information for identifying these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Clearfield. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. For COPD patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer more convenient and accessible care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Investigating the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in 16830, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is crucial for assessing the quality of care.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of comprehensive COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this connection and integrate mental health services into their care plans are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integration can take various forms, including on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, and educational programs on coping strategies. Assessing the availability and integration of mental health resources within primary care practices in Clearfield is essential for ensuring that COPD patients receive comprehensive and supportive care.

Specific examples of practices within 16830 and their approaches to COPD care would significantly enhance this analysis. This includes identifying practices that have implemented specific programs, such as COPD education classes, smoking cessation programs, or home-based respiratory therapy. The availability of these resources, along with the practices' commitment to patient-centered care, can be evaluated through patient testimonials, online reviews, and practice websites. The analysis should also consider the insurance plans accepted by the practices, ensuring that the services are accessible to the local population.

Further, the analysis should consider the availability of specialized COPD resources within the broader Clearfield County healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The proximity and accessibility of these specialized services are essential for providing comprehensive care for COPD patients. The analysis should also assess the level of collaboration and communication between PCPs and these specialized providers, ensuring seamless care coordination.

Finally, the analysis should consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on COPD care in Clearfield. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can all significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their COPD. The analysis should assess whether primary care practices are addressing these social determinants of health, for example, by offering transportation assistance, providing culturally sensitive care, or offering health education materials in multiple languages.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of COPD care in Clearfield requires a multifaceted approach. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the integration of mental health resources are all critical components. A comprehensive understanding of these factors, along with a consideration of the socioeconomic context, will provide a more complete picture of the challenges and opportunities for improving COPD care in the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources and the demographics of Clearfield, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to identify areas with the greatest needs and assess the accessibility of healthcare services.