17087, Richland, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17087, Richland, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.58 percent of the residents in 17087 has some form of health insurance. 24.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.98 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 17087 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 720 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17087. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 424 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,852 health care providers accessible to residents in 17087, Richland, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Richland, PA (ZIP Code 17087)

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians and related resources for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within the Richland, Pennsylvania area, specifically focusing on ZIP Code 17087. The assessment incorporates factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to a "COPD Score" that reflects the overall quality of care and accessibility.

The foundation of successful COPD management rests upon accessible and responsive primary care. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratio data for 17087 is difficult to obtain without accessing proprietary databases, publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined with physician directories, can provide an estimated ratio. This initial step involves determining the total population within the ZIP code and identifying the number of actively practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) accepting new patients. A lower ratio suggests better access, potentially leading to improved outcomes for COPD patients.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by local practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires a multifaceted approach. This includes analyzing patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc, as well as examining the practice's accreditation status from organizations like the Joint Commission. Practices demonstrating a commitment to COPD-specific care often highlight this through specialized programs, dedicated respiratory therapists, and participation in clinical trials. Further research into the practices' adoption of evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, such as those established by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), is crucial. The presence of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT) facilities and access to pulmonary specialists within the practice or through close referral relationships also significantly enhances the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a transformative force in healthcare delivery, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves investigating the availability of virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists within the 17087 area. This includes determining the types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., video conferencing, remote monitoring), the types of services offered (e.g., medication management, symptom monitoring), and the cost of these services. Practices actively embracing telemedicine often experience improved patient engagement and reduced hospital readmission rates, both vital metrics in COPD care.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the critical role of mental health. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the COPD Score. This involves evaluating the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers) within the area and assessing whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers. Practices demonstrating a commitment to addressing the mental health needs of their COPD patients, through screening tools, counseling services, or support groups, receive a higher score.

Furthermore, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is essential. These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Assessing the COPD Score involves identifying the presence of accredited pulmonary rehabilitation programs within the 17087 area and evaluating their accessibility, cost, and program content. Programs offering personalized exercise plans, nutritional counseling, and education about COPD management strategies contribute to a higher score.

The overall COPD Score for the Richland, PA (17087) area is a composite measure reflecting the interplay of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare environment that prioritizes accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive COPD care. This includes a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with specialized COPD programs, widespread telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and accessible pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing and receiving optimal COPD care.

The specific COPD Score for 17087 would depend on a thorough, data-driven analysis. However, the framework outlined here provides a roadmap for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. The analysis should consider the unique demographic characteristics of the population within the ZIP code, including age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of COPD.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their healthcare. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the resources available in their community.

To gain a more comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Richland, PA, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.