17314, Delta, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17314, Delta, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.62 percent of the residents in 17314 has some form of health insurance. 33.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.42 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 17314 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,591 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17314. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,048 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 514 health care providers accessible to residents in 17314, Delta, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Delta, PA (ZIP Code 17314)

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care services in Delta, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17314), specifically focusing on resources relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effective COPD care.

Delta, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas, including potential shortages of healthcare professionals and limited access to specialized services. The COPD Score, therefore, will reflect the degree to which the local healthcare infrastructure addresses these challenges and supports patients living with COPD.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. Data on the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP Code 17314 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from professional directories, can provide an estimate. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and ongoing care.

Furthermore, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is vital. Even if the overall ratio appears adequate, a concentration of physicians in one part of Delta could leave residents in other areas with limited access. Geographic barriers, such as distance and transportation challenges, can exacerbate these disparities, particularly for individuals with COPD who may experience mobility limitations.

**Standout Practices and COPD Management:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their approach to COPD management. This assessment should consider several factors. First, the presence of board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized training in respiratory medicine is a significant asset. Second, the availability of comprehensive diagnostic tools, such as spirometry and pulmonary function testing, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of COPD progression.

Third, practices that actively implement evidence-based COPD management guidelines, including medication adherence programs, pulmonary rehabilitation referrals, and smoking cessation support, are highly desirable. Fourth, practices that prioritize patient education and self-management strategies, empowering patients to take an active role in their care, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Finally, practices that demonstrate a commitment to ongoing quality improvement, such as regularly reviewing patient outcomes and implementing changes based on feedback, are also noteworthy.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address access challenges, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve COPD care. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

Practices that utilize telemedicine for COPD patients can provide more convenient and accessible care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation difficulties. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers, enabling timely interventions and improved disease management.

**Mental Health Resources and COPD:**

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD are at increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care.

The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the local healthcare system is essential. Ideally, these professionals should have experience working with patients with chronic illnesses and an understanding of the psychological impact of COPD.

Referral pathways between primary care practices and mental health providers are also crucial. Integrated care models, where mental health services are incorporated into primary care settings, can improve access and coordination of care. Moreover, support groups and educational programs focused on coping with COPD can provide valuable emotional support and self-management strategies.

**COPD Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, a COPD Score for Delta, PA (17314) can be conceptually formulated. This score would represent a composite measure, incorporating weighted values for each of the key indicators: physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability. The weighting of each factor would reflect its relative importance in achieving optimal COPD care.

For example, a low physician-to-patient ratio could negatively impact the score, while the presence of a practice with a dedicated pulmonary specialist and robust telemedicine capabilities would positively influence the score. The availability of mental health services would also be a critical factor, with a higher score reflecting greater access to these resources.

**Conclusion:**

The COPD Score for Delta, PA (17314) is likely to be influenced by the challenges of rural healthcare. While the precise score can only be determined with detailed data, the assessment framework provides a valuable lens for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure in supporting patients with COPD.

The analysis underscores the importance of addressing access barriers, promoting evidence-based practices, and integrating mental health services into COPD care. Furthermore, the adoption of telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving care delivery in Delta.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Delta, PA (17314), including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, access to resources, and potential areas for improvement, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping tools can provide a valuable visual representation of the data, aiding in the identification of key trends and patterns.