17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.82 percent of the residents in 17238 has some form of health insurance. 36.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.20 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 17238 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 374 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17238. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 394 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 528 health care providers accessible to residents in 17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17238 and Primary Care in Needmore**

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and related resources for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in and around ZIP code 17238, with a specific focus on Needmore, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a COPD Score assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support. The goal is to understand the landscape of care and identify areas for improvement, ultimately aiding patients in navigating their healthcare options.

ZIP code 17238 encompasses the town of McConnellsburg and surrounding rural areas in Fulton County, Pennsylvania. Needmore, a smaller community within the county, presents its own unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The rural nature of the region often translates to lower physician density compared to more urban areas. This scarcity of providers can create significant hurdles for COPD patients, who require regular check-ups, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, rural areas generally face shortages. For 17238, this means COPD patients might experience longer wait times to see a primary care physician (PCP) or a pulmonologist. This delay can negatively affect disease management, potentially leading to exacerbations and hospitalizations.

Identifying standout practices within and near 17238 is vital. These practices often demonstrate excellence in COPD care, offering comprehensive services and patient-centered approaches. Factors considered include board certifications, experience with COPD management, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of specialized services like pulmonary function testing and respiratory therapy. Practices that embrace a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care between PCPs, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists, are particularly valuable.

Telemedicine has emerged as a game-changer, especially in rural settings. Its adoption by healthcare providers in 17238 is a key factor in the COPD Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with their physicians remotely, monitor their symptoms, and receive medication refills. Practices that offer telehealth options, including virtual visits and remote patient monitoring, are better equipped to support COPD patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health is frequently overlooked in COPD care, yet it is a critical component of overall well-being. COPD can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources within the 17238 area is therefore a crucial element of the COPD Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans, either through in-house providers or partnerships with external mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The COPD Score for 17238 and Needmore is not solely determined by the presence of physicians. It also considers the quality of care provided. This includes the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are essential for improving lung function, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life. These programs typically involve supervised exercise, education about COPD, and breathing techniques. The presence of a robust pulmonary rehabilitation program significantly enhances the COPD Score.

Furthermore, the COPD Score considers the level of patient education and support offered by practices. This includes providing patients with information about their disease, medication management, and self-care strategies. Practices that offer patient education materials, support groups, and access to COPD-specific resources contribute to improved patient outcomes and a higher COPD Score.

In Needmore specifically, the availability of primary care is likely to be even more limited. The smaller population base and rural location mean fewer healthcare facilities and providers. COPD patients in Needmore may need to travel to McConnellsburg or other nearby towns for their medical care. This underscores the importance of telemedicine and other strategies to improve access to care.

The analysis of the COPD Score must also factor in the affordability of care. This includes the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of medications and other healthcare services. Practices that are transparent about their pricing and offer options for patients with limited financial resources contribute to a higher COPD Score.

Another important consideration is the integration of technology to improve care coordination. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to share patient information between providers, the use of patient portals to facilitate communication, and the use of mobile apps to monitor symptoms and track progress. Practices that embrace technology to improve care coordination contribute to a higher COPD Score.

The COPD Score assessment, therefore, is a composite measure, reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of care for COPD patients in 17238 and Needmore. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic representation of the healthcare landscape, subject to change as new providers enter the area, existing practices evolve, and technology advances.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17238 and Needmore, and to visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and pharmacies, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This tool can provide a visual representation of healthcare access and assist in identifying areas with the greatest needs.