17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.47 percent of the residents in 17090 has some form of health insurance. 40.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.95 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 17090 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,092 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 124 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17090. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 988 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 24,084 health care providers accessible to residents in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Shermans Dale (ZIP Code 17090)

Analyzing the landscape of COPD care in Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17090), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, their practices, and the resources available to manage a chronic respiratory illness like COPD. We'll consider factors impacting patient access, including physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support, a crucial component of comprehensive COPD management.

Shermans Dale, a relatively rural area, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The success of COPD management here hinges on the strength of the primary care infrastructure, the willingness of physicians to adopt best practices, and the availability of ancillary services. A robust primary care system is the cornerstone of effective COPD care, providing regular check-ups, medication management, and patient education.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of accessibility. In a rural setting, a lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) is generally preferable, allowing for more personalized care and reduced wait times. However, the exact physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP Code 17090 requires specific data analysis, which is often proprietary and not readily available. Publicly accessible data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates for the broader county (Perry County) and state (Pennsylvania), offering a general context. If the county or state ratios are unfavorable, this suggests potential challenges in accessing timely primary care, which is vital for COPD patients.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. These practices may demonstrate superior COPD management through several key indicators. They may have a higher rate of patients receiving annual flu and pneumonia vaccinations, which are crucial for preventing respiratory infections that can exacerbate COPD symptoms. They may also have a strong track record of timely referrals to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists. Furthermore, they might implement patient education programs that empower patients to manage their condition effectively, including training on inhaler techniques, smoking cessation support, and self-monitoring of symptoms. These practices are often characterized by a patient-centered approach, emphasizing communication, shared decision-making, and proactive care.

Telemedicine offers a significant advantage in rural areas like Shermans Dale. It allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. For COPD patients, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for medication management, symptom monitoring, and follow-up appointments. Telemedicine platforms can enable physicians to assess patients' respiratory function through virtual consultations, review medication adherence, and provide timely interventions to prevent exacerbations. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 17090, therefore, is a critical factor in improving COPD care. Practices embracing this technology are likely to be better positioned to serve their patients effectively.

Mental health is a frequently overlooked but essential aspect of COPD management. Living with COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, significantly impacting quality of life. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. This integration might involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of telehealth to provide mental health counseling. Access to mental health support can improve patients' coping mechanisms, adherence to treatment plans, and overall well-being. The availability of these resources in Shermans Dale is a key indicator of the comprehensiveness of COPD care.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized services is also crucial. This includes access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Pulmonologists are specialists in lung diseases and can provide advanced diagnostics and treatment options for COPD. Respiratory therapists are trained to assist patients with breathing techniques and medication delivery. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs offer structured exercise and education to improve lung function and quality of life. The proximity and accessibility of these specialized services in and around Shermans Dale contribute significantly to the overall quality of COPD care.

Data on insurance coverage is another crucial factor. The percentage of patients with adequate health insurance coverage influences access to care and the affordability of medications and treatments. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, are better equipped to serve a diverse patient population. Information on the availability of financial assistance programs for medications and other healthcare costs is also valuable.

Evaluating the COPD Score for doctors in ZIP Code 17090 requires a comprehensive assessment of all these factors. The score is not a single number but a reflection of the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care in the area. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services. The higher the score, the better the overall care environment for COPD patients.

The assessment should also consider the availability of community resources, such as support groups and educational programs. These resources can provide valuable support and information to patients and their families. The involvement of local organizations in promoting COPD awareness and education is also a positive indicator.

In conclusion, the COPD Score analysis for Shermans Dale provides a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care infrastructure and identifies areas for improvement. A thorough understanding of these factors is essential for developing strategies to enhance COPD care in the community.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shermans Dale, including the location of primary care practices, specialized services, and other relevant data points, consider exploring the power of location-based mapping.