17322, Felton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17322, Felton, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.31 percent of the residents in 17322 has some form of health insurance. 31.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.48 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 17322 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17322. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 905 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,606 health care providers accessible to residents in 17322, Felton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Felton, PA (ZIP Code 17322)

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and resources for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Felton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17322) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several critical factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized COPD care, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

Felton, a small community in York County, faces challenges common to many rural areas. One significant hurdle is the potential for limited access to primary care physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio can translate into longer wait times for appointments, making it difficult for COPD patients to receive timely check-ups, medication adjustments, and crucial pulmonary function tests. The availability of specialized pulmonologists, crucial for managing complex COPD cases, is another factor. The absence of nearby specialists necessitates travel to larger cities like York, potentially creating logistical and financial burdens for patients.

The quality of primary care practices significantly impacts the COPD Score. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive COPD management, including regular spirometry testing, patient education on inhaler techniques and disease management, and proactive medication reviews, would receive higher marks. Practices that actively participate in COPD-focused quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Lung Association or the COPD Foundation, also score favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element of a positive COPD Score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for medication refills, symptom monitoring, and follow-up appointments, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine platforms, offering secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are vital. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices that integrate mental health screenings and offer referrals to therapists, counselors, or support groups are better equipped to address the holistic needs of COPD patients. The availability of mental health professionals specializing in chronic illness management is another positive indicator.

Analyzing the specific practices within ZIP code 17322 requires a deep dive into their individual profiles. This includes examining their patient reviews, assessing their accreditation status, and investigating their participation in value-based care programs that prioritize quality outcomes. The presence of certified respiratory therapists within the practice is a significant advantage, as these professionals play a critical role in patient education and respiratory support.

A high COPD Score also reflects the presence of community resources. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which provide supervised exercise, education, and support, is a key component of effective COPD management. The presence of support groups, such as those facilitated by the COPD Foundation or local hospitals, can provide valuable peer support and education for patients and their families.

In the absence of specific practice names and detailed data, it is challenging to provide a definitive COPD Score. However, we can analyze the general landscape. The area's rural nature suggests potential challenges regarding physician access and specialist availability. The presence of a strong hospital system in the broader York County area would be a positive factor, as it would likely offer access to pulmonary specialists and pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

The COPD Score for Felton, PA (17322) is likely moderate, with room for improvement. The rural setting presents challenges related to access to care, but the proximity to York City offers potential access to specialists and advanced resources. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services would be crucial factors in improving the score.

The availability of public transportation, which is often limited in rural areas, can also impact the COPD Score. Patients who rely on public transport may face difficulties attending appointments and accessing community resources. The presence of transportation services specifically designed for individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses would be a positive factor.

The overall COPD Score for Felton is also affected by the availability of educational resources for both patients and healthcare providers. Practices that actively educate patients on COPD management, including proper inhaler techniques, medication adherence, and symptom recognition, will be rated higher. Furthermore, the presence of continuing medical education opportunities for local physicians on COPD management would be a positive indicator.

The assessment also considers the availability of resources related to smoking cessation. Smoking is a primary cause of COPD, and providing access to smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, is a critical component of COPD care. Practices that actively screen patients for smoking status and offer or refer patients to smoking cessation programs will score favorably.

The quality of communication between primary care physicians and specialists is also an important factor. Efficient communication ensures that patients receive coordinated care and that all healthcare providers are informed of the patient's condition and treatment plan. Practices that utilize electronic health records and facilitate easy communication between providers will receive higher scores.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Felton, PA (17322) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the rural setting may present challenges, the presence of a supportive healthcare infrastructure and a commitment to patient-centered care can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals managing COPD. The adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of community resources are crucial for improving the score.

To gain a more precise understanding of the healthcare landscape in Felton and surrounding areas, and to visualize the distribution of resources and access points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of healthcare availability, helping patients and providers make informed decisions.