16925, Gillett, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16925, Gillett, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.02 percent of the residents in 16925 has some form of health insurance. 45.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.35 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 16925 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 825 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16925. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 741 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 951 health care providers accessible to residents in 16925, Gillett, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Gillett, PA (ZIP Code 16925)

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management in Gillett, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16925) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health support, all crucial factors in providing effective COPD care. The goal is to assess the overall "COPD Score" for the area, reflecting the community's capacity to support individuals living with this chronic respiratory illness.

The foundation of any COPD care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Gillett, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While exact figures fluctuate, this rural area likely faces challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. A limited number of PCPs would translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for COPD. This scarcity can significantly impact the COPD Score negatively. The ability to secure timely appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and acute exacerbations is vital for managing COPD effectively.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by available PCPs is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating their approach to COPD management. This includes examining their adherence to national guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, their utilization of spirometry testing to assess lung function, and their emphasis on patient education regarding medication adherence, smoking cessation, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Practices that actively engage in these practices and demonstrate positive patient outcomes would contribute positively to the overall COPD Score. Conversely, practices lacking these elements would detract from it.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the challenges of rural healthcare access. The adoption rate of telemedicine services among PCPs in Gillett is a significant factor. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, mitigating the impact of geographical barriers. Practices embracing telemedicine can enhance patient convenience, improve monitoring of COPD symptoms, and potentially reduce the need for hospitalizations. A high adoption rate would significantly boost the COPD Score, while limited telemedicine use would hinder it.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Individuals with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges due to the chronic nature of their illness and its impact on their quality of life. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. The proximity of mental health professionals, the acceptance of insurance, and the availability of specialized mental health services for individuals with chronic illnesses all contribute to the COPD Score. A lack of readily accessible mental health support would significantly diminish the overall score.

Assessing the presence of specialized pulmonary care within the area is also important. While PCPs are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized pulmonary rehabilitation programs is essential for managing complex COPD cases. The availability of these specialists and services significantly impacts the COPD Score, particularly for patients with advanced disease.

The overall COPD Score for Gillett (ZIP Code 16925) is likely to be influenced by several factors. The rural nature of the area presents challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized care. The success of local practices in adopting innovative approaches like telemedicine and integrating mental health support will be critical.

Improving the COPD Score requires a multifaceted strategy. This includes efforts to attract and retain PCPs, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding access to mental health services. Community outreach programs focused on COPD awareness, smoking cessation, and pulmonary rehabilitation are also essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is vital to creating a robust and supportive healthcare environment for individuals with COPD.

The specific practices and resources available in Gillett need to be carefully evaluated to determine the current COPD Score. A comprehensive assessment should include an examination of the local healthcare infrastructure, patient outcomes, and the availability of support services. This detailed analysis would provide a more accurate picture of the community's capacity to support individuals living with COPD.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gillett, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and mental health facilities, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of geographic data, allowing you to identify the distribution of healthcare resources and assess their accessibility within the ZIP Code. This visual approach can provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing individuals with COPD in Gillett.