16922, Galeton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16922, Galeton, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.25 percent of the residents in 16922 has some form of health insurance. 54.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.00 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 16922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 330 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16922. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 476 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 611 health care providers accessible to residents in 16922, Galeton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Galeton, PA (ZIP Code 16922)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients in Galeton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16922) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, a “COPD Score,” aims to evaluate the landscape of primary care, physician resources, and related support systems. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare environment for individuals managing this chronic respiratory illness.

Galeton, a rural community in Potter County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The limited population density and geographic isolation often translate into fewer healthcare providers and potential difficulties in accessing specialized services. The COPD Score, therefore, will consider these factors in its assessment.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The foundation of COPD management lies in strong primary care. Access to a dedicated primary care physician (PCP) is crucial for diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, medication management, and patient education. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, as well as their capacity to accept new patients. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care and urgent care facilities is critical for managing acute exacerbations of COPD.

In Galeton, the PCP-to-patient ratio is likely to be a key factor. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to care. The score will consider the average wait times for appointments, both routine and urgent, as indicators of accessibility. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can provide valuable support in primary care, will also be factored into the evaluation.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Beyond the overall PCP availability, the specific physician-to-patient ratio within Galeton is vital. This ratio directly impacts the time a physician can dedicate to each patient, influencing the quality of care. A lower ratio allows for more comprehensive patient assessments, more detailed discussions about treatment plans, and better management of comorbidities, which are common in COPD patients.

Data on the number of active physicians, their patient load, and their specialization (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine) will be used to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. This data, combined with information on the age and health status of the local population, will help to create a more nuanced understanding of the resources available.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves assessing their commitment to COPD management. This includes evaluating their use of evidence-based guidelines, their patient education programs, and their integration of respiratory therapists and other specialists into the care team. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and track patient outcomes will be viewed favorably.

The COPD Score will consider the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFT) within the primary care setting or readily accessible through referral. PFTs are essential for diagnosing and monitoring COPD. Practices that offer these services on-site or have strong referral relationships with facilities that do will receive a higher score. The score will also evaluate the availability of smoking cessation programs and resources, as smoking is a major risk factor for COPD.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution for improving access to care in rural areas like Galeton. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication management can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients. The COPD Score will assess the adoption of telemedicine by local practices, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and are actively using them to enhance patient care will receive a higher score. This includes the availability of secure video conferencing platforms, the ability to transmit patient data electronically, and the training provided to both physicians and patients on the use of these technologies.

**Mental Health Resources:**

COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. The COPD Score will assess the availability of mental health services within the community, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists.

The score will consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site therapists or strong referral relationships with mental health providers. The presence of support groups and educational resources for patients and their families will also be evaluated.

**Specific Considerations for Galeton:**

Galeton's rural setting necessitates specific considerations. Transportation challenges, limited internet access, and the potential for a higher proportion of elderly residents all impact healthcare access. The COPD Score will account for these factors by evaluating the availability of transportation assistance programs, the accessibility of telehealth services, and the cultural sensitivity of healthcare providers.

The score will also consider the presence of community health centers or other safety-net providers that serve the needs of low-income and underserved populations. These providers often play a critical role in ensuring access to care for all residents, regardless of their ability to pay.

**Conclusion:**

The COPD Score for Galeton, PA (16922) will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients. This analysis, by examining primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, will offer a valuable insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The findings will highlight areas for improvement and inform strategies for enhancing the quality of care for individuals living with COPD in this rural community.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics within Galeton and the surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps provide a dynamic and informative way to understand the healthcare landscape and identify potential gaps in access.