17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.90 percent of the residents in 17033 has some form of health insurance. 30.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.29 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 17033 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,869 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 87 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17033. An estimate of 14 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,117 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,996 health care providers accessible to residents in 17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17033)

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management within Hershey, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on ZIP Code 17033. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "COPD Score" assessment, evaluating factors critical for patients managing this chronic respiratory illness. This score considers physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for effective COPD care.

Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a community known for its healthcare institutions, notably Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. This presence significantly influences the availability and quality of medical care within the region. However, the distribution of primary care physicians and specialized COPD resources within the 17033 ZIP code warrants a closer examination.

One of the most fundamental aspects of COPD care accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians for a given population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 17033 requires detailed data analysis, including the number of practicing primary care physicians and the total population of the ZIP code. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be utilized to estimate these figures. A lower ratio would negatively impact the COPD Score, indicating potential challenges in accessing timely and consistent care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are vital. Practices with a focus on chronic disease management, including COPD, are inherently more valuable. These practices often have specialized staff, such as respiratory therapists and certified COPD educators, who can provide tailored care and support. The presence of these specialized resources significantly enhances the COPD Score. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on COPD management guidelines, also contribute positively.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits for COPD patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and access to educational resources. This is particularly important for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as remote patient monitoring devices and secure video conferencing platforms, receive a higher COPD Score. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the frequency of use and the types of services offered, is crucial.

Mental health support is often overlooked in the management of chronic illnesses like COPD, but it is a critical component of comprehensive care. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, significantly impacting a patient's quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health specialists, are highly valued. The availability of support groups and educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of COPD also contributes positively to the COPD Score.

Identifying standout practices within 17033 is essential. This requires a deep dive into the specific characteristics of each practice. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to COPD care, evidenced by specialized staff, comprehensive care plans, and a strong focus on patient education, would rank higher. Reviews from patients, as well as data on patient outcomes, can provide further insights into the quality of care provided. Practices that actively engage in community outreach programs related to COPD, such as screening events and educational seminars, also deserve recognition.

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center likely plays a significant role in COPD care within the region. Its presence can positively impact the COPD Score, potentially providing access to specialized pulmonary services and advanced diagnostic tools. The hospital's involvement in research and clinical trials related to COPD can also contribute to improved care. The level of collaboration between primary care physicians and the medical center is another important factor to consider.

In assessing the COPD Score, it is crucial to consider the geographic distribution of resources within 17033. Even with a good overall score, pockets of underserved areas may exist. Access to transportation, particularly for patients with respiratory difficulties, is a significant consideration. The availability of public transportation options and the proximity of practices to patient residences can impact the COPD Score.

Ultimately, the COPD Score is a composite metric reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care within 17033. A high score indicates a well-resourced environment with a strong emphasis on comprehensive care, including specialized staff, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. A lower score suggests potential areas for improvement, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support.

This analysis provides a general overview. A more detailed assessment would require access to specific data from healthcare providers, insurance companies, and public health agencies. This includes information on physician demographics, practice characteristics, telemedicine utilization rates, and mental health service integration. This data would allow for a more precise and actionable COPD Score.

To visualize and explore the distribution of healthcare resources in Hershey and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, allowing for a more informed understanding of the healthcare landscape.