16874, Snow Shoe, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16874, Snow Shoe, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.17 percent of the residents in 16874 has some form of health insurance. 40.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.84 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 16874 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 281 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16874. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 255 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 698 health care providers accessible to residents in 16874, Snow Shoe, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Snow Shoe, PA (ZIP Code 16874)

Analyzing the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Snow Shoe, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16874) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting COPD patient care, including physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and access to crucial resources. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare landscape, specifically concerning COPD management.

The initial assessment centers on physician-to-patient ratios. In rural areas like Snow Shoe, a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists is a significant concern. The national average of PCPs per capita often doesn't translate to rural communities. Therefore, a detailed investigation into the number of actively practicing PCPs and pulmonologists within a reasonable radius of Snow Shoe is essential. This investigation should also consider the patient load each physician carries. Overburdened physicians may have limited time for comprehensive COPD management, including regular check-ups, medication reviews, and patient education. The analysis needs to determine if the current physician pool can adequately serve the potential COPD patient population within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas.

Beyond physician numbers, the analysis must evaluate the infrastructure supporting COPD care. This includes the availability of diagnostic tools such as spirometry, a crucial test for diagnosing and monitoring COPD. Access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are essential for improving lung function and quality of life for COPD patients, is another vital consideration. A lack of these resources can severely limit the ability of patients to manage their condition effectively. The analysis should pinpoint the location of these resources and assess their accessibility for residents of Snow Shoe, considering factors like distance, transportation options, and insurance coverage.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. The analysis should investigate the extent to which local healthcare providers utilize telemedicine for COPD management. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens for patients, and facilitate more frequent check-ins, particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine services and the ease with which patients can access them.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are crucial. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the Snow Shoe area. The integration of mental health services into COPD care can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life. The assessment should also consider the availability of resources for substance abuse, as smoking cessation is a critical component of COPD management.

Identifying standout practices within the area is also a priority. The analysis should look for healthcare providers who demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care. This includes practices that: offer patient education programs, actively promote smoking cessation, provide access to pulmonary rehabilitation, and have a strong track record of positive patient outcomes. Examining patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by different practices.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the impact of insurance coverage on access to care. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local healthcare providers is a crucial factor. The analysis should assess the availability of affordable healthcare options for residents of Snow Shoe, including information on insurance plans accepted by local physicians and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who struggle to afford their medications or healthcare services. This includes understanding the impact of Medicare and Medicaid coverage, as well as the availability of any local or state-funded programs.

The analysis should also examine the existing community support networks available to COPD patients. This includes support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and community health programs. These resources can provide valuable information, emotional support, and practical assistance to patients and their families. The assessment should identify the presence of these networks and assess their accessibility to residents of Snow Shoe.

Finally, the analysis should consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on COPD care. Poverty, lack of education, and limited access to transportation can all exacerbate the challenges faced by COPD patients. The analysis should assess the socioeconomic profile of Snow Shoe and identify any disparities in access to care. This could include examining factors like income levels, educational attainment, and transportation options.

In conclusion, evaluating COPD care in Snow Shoe, PA (ZIP Code 16874) requires a comprehensive assessment of physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, standout practices, insurance coverage, community support networks, and socioeconomic factors. A thorough understanding of these elements is crucial for identifying gaps in care and developing strategies to improve outcomes for COPD patients in this rural community. This detailed assessment will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing the specific needs of COPD patients.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Snow Shoe, including the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and help patients navigate the healthcare system more effectively.