16912, Blossburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16912, Blossburg, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.73 percent of the residents in 16912 has some form of health insurance. 29.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.59 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 16912 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 693 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16912. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 271 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,076 health care providers accessible to residents in 16912, Blossburg, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Blossburg, PA (ZIP Code 16912)**

The assessment of COPD care within Blossburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16912) necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering both the availability and quality of primary care services, the specific expertise in managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and the integration of resources designed to support patients with this chronic condition. This analysis will delve into key aspects, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, to provide a comprehensive COPD Score evaluation.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability**

A critical determinant of COPD care accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio within the Blossburg area. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time available for comprehensive patient management. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests potentially better access to care. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, is crucial for determining this ratio.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly important. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing COPD symptoms and play a vital role in diagnosis, initial treatment, and ongoing disease management. Access to timely appointments with PCPs is essential for early intervention and preventing exacerbations. Any analysis must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing in the area, their acceptance of new patients, and the average wait times for appointments.

**Standout Practices and COPD Expertise**

Identifying practices with a demonstrated focus on COPD management is crucial. This involves evaluating the presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized nurses within the practices. Practices that actively participate in COPD-related clinical trials or research initiatives often demonstrate a commitment to providing cutting-edge care. Examining patient reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by specific practices.

Furthermore, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is a significant indicator of quality COPD care. These programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, are proven to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for COPD patients. The presence of accredited pulmonary rehabilitation programs within or near Blossburg is a positive factor in the overall COPD Score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Remote Monitoring**

The adoption of telemedicine technologies has the potential to significantly improve COPD care accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Blossburg. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices (such as those that track oxygen saturation and heart rate), and telehealth platforms are all relevant factors.

The successful integration of telemedicine requires more than just the availability of technology. It also necessitates adequate patient education and training, robust technical support, and secure data transmission protocols to protect patient privacy. Practices that have successfully implemented telemedicine solutions often demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient-centered care.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems**

COPD can significantly impact mental health. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations it imposes, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care.

This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who are experienced in treating patients with chronic illnesses. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide patients with valuable emotional support and a sense of community. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

**Specific Analysis for Blossburg, PA (16912)**

To provide a specific COPD Score analysis for Blossburg, a detailed investigation is needed. This involves gathering data on the aforementioned factors.

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** Researching the number of PCPs and pulmonologists actively practicing within the ZIP code, and comparing this to the population data from the US Census Bureau.
* **Practice Evaluation:** Identifying and evaluating the practices within the area, assessing their staffing (pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, nurses), participation in clinical trials, and patient reviews.
* **Telemedicine Assessment:** Determining the availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and telehealth platforms, offered by local practices.
* **Mental Health Resources:** Identifying the availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and mental health services within the area.

**Conclusion: Crafting the COPD Score**

The COPD Score for Blossburg, PA (16912) will be determined by weighting the factors above. The weighting will reflect the relative importance of each factor in contributing to the quality and accessibility of COPD care. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a greater availability of specialized resources, and a more comprehensive approach to patient management.

The final score would be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It would provide a snapshot of the current state of COPD care in the area and identify areas for improvement.

**Explore the Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Blossburg, PA, and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed maps that can overlay various data points, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information. This visual representation can help you identify areas with limited access to care and understand the distribution of resources. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the healthcare landscape and gain valuable insights into COPD care in your community.