17217, Concord, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17217, Concord, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.69 percent of the residents in 17217 has some form of health insurance. 40.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.17 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 17217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 23 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 29 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,486 health care providers accessible to residents in 17217, Concord, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in ZIP Code 17217 & Concord, MA

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care and COPD management within ZIP Code 17217 (Chambersburg, Pennsylvania) and considers primary care availability in Concord, Massachusetts, offering a "COPD Score" based on several key factors. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including physician accessibility, innovative care models, and mental health support. This analysis avoids a simple numerical score, instead offering a qualitative assessment of strengths and weaknesses.

**ZIP Code 17217: Chambersburg, PA – A Rural Perspective**

Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, a predominantly rural area, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, the general trend in rural areas often reveals a shortage compared to more urban environments. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potentially reduced access to specialized care. The COPD Score for this area is therefore influenced significantly by PCP density and accessibility.

Examining individual practices within 17217 is crucial. Are there practices that stand out in their COPD management? This involves looking at their patient load, the presence of specialized respiratory therapists, and the adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols. Do these practices actively participate in COPD education programs for patients? Do they collaborate effectively with pulmonologists and other specialists? A practice demonstrating these characteristics would significantly elevate the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator. In a rural setting, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their PCPs and specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for COPD patients who may experience difficulty traveling for routine check-ups or pulmonary rehabilitation. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine for COPD management – for example, virtual consultations, remote monitoring of oxygen saturation levels, or telehealth-delivered pulmonary rehabilitation – would significantly improve the COPD Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are essential. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, therapists, counselors) within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referral networks is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health support into their COPD management plans would receive a higher score. The availability of support groups and educational programs focused on the psychological aspects of COPD is also important.

**Primary Care Availability in Concord, MA – A Suburban Assessment**

Concord, Massachusetts, a suburban community, offers a different healthcare landscape compared to Chambersburg. While still subject to fluctuations, physician-to-patient ratios are generally more favorable in suburban areas than in rural ones. This can translate to better access to PCPs, shorter wait times, and potentially a wider range of specialists. The COPD Score in Concord, therefore, benefits from this potentially greater density of healthcare providers.

The quality of primary care practices in Concord is paramount. Does the area have practices recognized for their excellence in COPD management? This includes looking at the integration of spirometry testing, the use of inhaled medications, and the implementation of smoking cessation programs. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, ideally within the community or easily accessible, is another critical factor. Practices actively involved in these areas would positively impact the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption in Concord, as in Chambersburg, is a critical factor. Even in a suburban setting, telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living with chronic conditions. Practices that embrace telehealth for COPD management – for example, virtual check-ups, remote monitoring of vital signs, or telehealth-delivered pulmonary rehabilitation – would contribute to a higher score.

Mental health resources are equally important in Concord. The integration of mental health support into COPD care is crucial. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks, is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that prioritize mental health support, including access to support groups and educational programs, would improve the COPD Score.

**Comparative Analysis and Conclusion**

Comparing the two areas, Concord, Massachusetts, likely benefits from greater access to healthcare resources, including a higher density of PCPs and potentially more readily available specialized care. However, this does not necessarily translate to superior COPD management. The quality of care, the adoption of innovative approaches like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support are crucial factors that determine the overall COPD Score.

Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, faces the challenge of a rural setting, with potentially lower physician-to-patient ratios and greater geographical barriers. However, practices that embrace telemedicine, prioritize mental health support, and actively participate in COPD education programs can significantly improve the COPD Score and offer high-quality care to their patients.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD Score requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician density, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. While general trends can be observed, the specific practices and resources within each community ultimately determine the quality of care available to COPD patients.

**Call to Action**

For a visual representation of these healthcare landscapes, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the power of geographic data visualization. Consider utilizing CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources in your area.