16834, Drifting, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16834, Drifting, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16834 has some form of health insurance. 25.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.10 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 16834 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 63 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16834. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 75 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,092 health care providers accessible to residents in 16834, Drifting, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in 16834 and Primary Care in Drifting, PA

Analyzing the availability and quality of COPD care within ZIP code 16834 and specifically in the Drifting, PA area necessitates a multi-faceted approach. A "COPD Score" is not a formal metric in the same way as a credit score, but rather a composite assessment based on various factors. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, technology adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all critical elements in managing a chronic respiratory condition like COPD.

The first crucial element is physician density. ZIP code 16834, encompassing Clearfield County, is a largely rural area. This inherent characteristic significantly impacts healthcare access. A low population density often translates to a lower concentration of physicians, particularly specialists like pulmonologists who are central to COPD management. While a precise physician-to-patient ratio for this specific ZIP code requires detailed data from sources like the American Medical Association and state licensing boards, it is highly probable that the ratio is less favorable compared to more urbanized areas. This means patients might face longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances to see a specialist.

Primary care availability in Drifting, a smaller community within the 16834 ZIP code, further exacerbates the challenge. Drifting’s limited population suggests fewer primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the immediate vicinity. PCPs are the gatekeepers to healthcare, providing initial assessments, referrals, and ongoing management of chronic conditions. The scarcity of PCPs in Drifting can create a bottleneck, delaying diagnosis and treatment for individuals potentially suffering from COPD. This lack of immediate access to primary care necessitates patients to travel to larger towns like Clearfield or Philipsburg, adding to the burden of care.

Beyond raw physician numbers, the characteristics of the medical practices within the region are vital. Are there practices that stand out in their approach to COPD care? Do they offer comprehensive services, including pulmonary function testing (PFTs), smoking cessation programs, and patient education? The presence of dedicated respiratory therapists is another key indicator of quality care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD often demonstrate a commitment to staying at the forefront of treatment advancements. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of online patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially contacting local healthcare organizations to gain insights into reputation and service offerings.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving COPD care access in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent check-ups. The availability of virtual consultations for medication management, symptom monitoring, and even pulmonary rehabilitation can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly those offering remote monitoring devices, are likely to score higher on a "COPD Score" because they are proactively addressing the challenges of geographical isolation. The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) that can be easily shared between providers is another important aspect of telemedicine integration.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the integration of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in treating patients with chronic respiratory conditions is crucial. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide integrated care, either through in-house services or referrals to external providers, are demonstrating a holistic approach to patient well-being. This integration can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall outcomes.

Evaluating the "COPD Score" for the 16834 ZIP code and specifically Drifting requires a comprehensive assessment. The analysis must consider the density of physicians, particularly pulmonologists and PCPs, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. The scarcity of resources in a rural area like Drifting presents significant challenges. However, the presence of dedicated practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services can mitigate these challenges and improve the quality of care for COPD patients.

In conclusion, the "COPD Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within the 16834 ZIP code and the Drifting area is critical for improving COPD care.