16947, Troy, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 16947, Troy, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.12 percent of the residents in 16947 has some form of health insurance. 44.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.10 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 16947 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 855 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16947. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 968 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 910 health care providers accessible to residents in 16947, Troy, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Troy, PA (ZIP Code 16947)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within a specific geographic area, demands a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Troy, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16947), with a focus on factors impacting COPD patient care. The evaluation incorporates physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This information aims to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, indirectly, by highlighting areas of strength and weakness within the local healthcare system.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. In rural areas like Troy, PA, the availability of PCPs is often limited. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised preventative care. Determining the exact ratio for this specific ZIP code requires accessing data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This ratio is a foundational element in assessing the accessibility of care for COPD patients, who require regular monitoring and management. A low ratio would negatively impact the “COPD Score.”

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves are crucial. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient needs? Do they have experience managing COPD patients? Practices specializing in pulmonary medicine, or those with a strong focus on chronic disease management, would positively influence the “COPD Score.” The presence of certified respiratory therapists (CRTs) within the practice is another valuable asset. CRTs provide specialized care, including pulmonary function testing and patient education, vital for effective COPD management. The availability of on-site diagnostic equipment, such as spirometry machines, is also essential for timely diagnosis and monitoring of the disease.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be particularly challenging for COPD patients. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor vital signs remotely, and provide remote education can significantly improve patient outcomes and improve the “COPD Score.” Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and offer these services to their patients would be viewed more favorably. The quality of the telemedicine platform, ease of use, and integration with the practice's electronic health record (EHR) system are important considerations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through referrals to local specialists, is essential. Practices that screen for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would contribute positively to the “COPD Score.” Integrated behavioral health services, where mental health providers work directly within the primary care setting, are particularly beneficial.

The integration of patient education and support programs also plays a crucial role. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or smoking cessation programs demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. These resources empower patients to actively manage their condition and improve their quality of life. The availability of these programs would be a positive factor in the overall “COPD Score” assessment. The accessibility and effectiveness of these programs, as well as their ability to adapt to patient needs, are also important considerations.

Standout practices within the Troy area would be those that excel in multiple areas. These might include practices with a high physician-to-patient ratio, a strong focus on chronic disease management, robust telemedicine capabilities, integrated mental health services, and comprehensive patient education programs. Identifying these practices requires a detailed review of available data, including patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially interviews with local healthcare professionals. These standout practices would significantly elevate the overall “COPD Score” for the region.

Assessing primary care availability in Troy also requires considering the broader healthcare ecosystem. Are there local hospitals with pulmonary specialists? Are there specialized clinics that focus on respiratory care? The proximity and accessibility of these resources are crucial for patients who may require more advanced care. The presence of a strong network of specialists and ancillary services would positively impact the “COPD Score.”

Ultimately, the “COPD Score” for Troy, PA (16947) is not a single number but a composite assessment based on these various factors. The analysis would highlight areas where the healthcare system excels and identify areas where improvements are needed. This information can be used to advocate for better healthcare resources, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals living with COPD in the Troy area.

The compilation of this information and the visualization of these healthcare attributes within a geographic context is invaluable. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Troy, PA, and to visualize the distribution of physicians, practice locations, and resource availability, consider exploring the advanced mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.