16872, Rebersburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16872, Rebersburg, Pennsylvania is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 55.27 percent of the residents in 16872 has some form of health insurance. 28.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.11 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 16872 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 516 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16872. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 208 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 223 health care providers accessible to residents in 16872, Rebersburg, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16872 & Primary Care in Rebersburg

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly for a chronic respiratory condition like COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the landscape of medical professionals within ZIP code 16872 (likely encompassing State College, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas) and the primary care resources available in Rebersburg, PA, to provide insights into the care options for individuals managing COPD. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial factors in effective COPD management.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher concentration of doctors per patient, generally suggests better access to care. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and local healthcare providers would be needed to determine the precise ratio within 16872. However, based on the presence of a major university (Penn State) and a regional medical center (Mount Nittany Medical Center), it is reasonable to expect a relatively favorable physician-to-patient ratio compared to more rural areas. This concentration of medical professionals could translate into shorter wait times for appointments and greater availability of specialists, which are beneficial for COPD patients who often require frequent check-ups and pulmonary consultations.

Within ZIP code 16872, the presence of a large hospital system like Mount Nittany Health is a significant advantage. This system likely offers a comprehensive range of services, including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and rehabilitation programs specifically designed for individuals with COPD. These specialized services are crucial for managing the complex symptoms of COPD, such as breathing difficulties, chronic cough, and fatigue. Furthermore, the presence of a teaching hospital can lead to access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials, offering potential benefits for patients seeking advanced care.

Primary care availability in Rebersburg, a more rural area, presents a different picture. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be less favorable than in the State College area. This scarcity can lead to longer travel times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialists. The challenge lies in ensuring that Rebersburg residents have adequate access to primary care physicians who can effectively manage their COPD. This often involves coordinating care with specialists located in nearby towns or cities, such as State College.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas like Rebersburg and for individuals with mobility limitations. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and enabling more frequent monitoring of their condition. The adoption rate of telemedicine within practices in 16872 and the willingness of primary care physicians in Rebersburg to utilize telemedicine platforms are important indicators of the accessibility of care. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital patient education resources, are better equipped to support COPD patients.

Mental health support is another crucial element in COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for addressing these challenges. The availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through referrals from primary care physicians is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to the holistic well-being of their patients.

Standout practices within 16872 and surrounding areas can be identified by several factors. These include practices that have a high adoption rate of telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring for COPD patients. Practices that have specialized COPD programs, including pulmonary rehabilitation, education, and support groups, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research related to COPD may offer patients access to innovative treatments. Additionally, practices with a strong focus on patient education, providing resources and support to help patients manage their condition effectively, are highly valuable.

In Rebersburg, the primary care physicians who are actively involved in the community and have strong referral networks with specialists in State College or other nearby towns are essential. These physicians play a crucial role in coordinating care and ensuring that patients have access to the resources they need. The ability of these physicians to effectively communicate with specialists, share patient information, and provide ongoing support is critical for successful COPD management.

Data collection and analysis are key to a complete COPD score. Gathering information on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is a complex task. This requires collaboration with local healthcare providers, insurance companies, and public health agencies. The COPD score would be a dynamic measure, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

The analysis must consider the potential impact of social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy. These factors can significantly influence a patient's ability to access and benefit from healthcare services. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring that all individuals with COPD receive the care they need.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in ZIP code 16872 and Rebersburg. Further research and data collection are needed to provide a comprehensive COPD score and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to enhance access to quality care, improve patient outcomes, and support individuals living with this chronic respiratory disease.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare resources, physician locations, and potential access challenges within ZIP code 16872 and the surrounding areas, we recommend exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to analyze physician density, identify underserved areas, and assess the accessibility of care for COPD patients.