17343, Mc Knightstown, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17343, Mc Knightstown, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17343 has some form of health insurance. 33.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 17343 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17343. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,229 health care providers accessible to residents in 17343, Mc Knightstown, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17343 and Primary Care Availability in Mc Knightstown

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, especially concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will focus on ZIP code 17343, encompassing the area around Mc Knightstown, Pennsylvania, and evaluate the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their capacity to serve patients with COPD. The goal is to provide a 'COPD Score' analysis, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support.

The foundation of a COPD score rests upon the accessibility of primary care. In ZIP code 17343, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. Publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be consulted to estimate this ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This is especially critical for COPD patients, who often require frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and pulmonary rehabilitation. The analysis would consider the number of PCPs, including internal medicine physicians, family medicine practitioners, and geriatricians, actively practicing within the ZIP code. The population data for the area is also a critical component.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care delivery plays a vital role in determining a COPD score. This involves investigating the adoption of evidence-based COPD management practices. The analysis will examine the prevalence of spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for COPD. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life, will be assessed. Furthermore, the analysis will consider the practices' adherence to guidelines set by organizations like the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). This includes examining medication prescribing patterns and the provision of smoking cessation counseling.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is also essential. This requires gathering information on practices known for their expertise in COPD management. This could involve searching for practices that have received recognition or accreditation for their respiratory care services. Reviews from patients, if available, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall experience of care. The analysis will look for practices that actively participate in community outreach programs focused on COPD awareness and prevention. Such practices will likely score higher on the COPD score.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible way for patients, particularly those with mobility issues or living in rural areas, to receive care. The analysis will assess the extent to which PCPs in ZIP code 17343 offer telehealth consultations for COPD management. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual check-ups, medication refills, and remote monitoring of patients' lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve patient access and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

The presence of mental health resources is also critical for COPD patients. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the practices or through referral networks. This includes assessing whether practices have mental health professionals on staff or partnerships with mental health providers. The availability of support groups or educational resources for COPD patients and their families will also be considered.

The COPD score will be a composite metric, assigning weights to each of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio will be weighted heavily, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to care. The adoption of evidence-based practices, including spirometry testing and pulmonary rehabilitation, will be given significant weight. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources will also contribute to the score, recognizing their impact on patient outcomes and overall well-being.

The primary care availability in Mc Knightstown, a community within ZIP code 17343, is directly related to the overall COPD score. The number of PCPs serving Mc Knightstown, the proximity of their practices to the community, and their willingness to accept new patients are all crucial factors. The analysis will consider the demographics of Mc Knightstown, including the age distribution and prevalence of smoking, as these factors influence the demand for COPD care. It will also assess the availability of transportation options for patients to access primary care services.

The analysis will also consider the impact of healthcare insurance coverage on access to care. The percentage of residents with health insurance and the types of insurance accepted by local PCPs will be examined. This will help to determine whether financial barriers exist that may limit access to COPD management. The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for patients who are uninsured or underinsured.

By systematically evaluating these factors, the COPD score analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of the primary care landscape in ZIP code 17343 and the surrounding Mc Knightstown area. This analysis will identify strengths and weaknesses in the delivery of COPD care, providing valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can also serve as a starting point for efforts to improve access to care and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with COPD in this region.

Ultimately, understanding the complexities of healthcare access and quality requires visualization. To gain a clearer, more interactive understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and the factors impacting COPD management in ZIP code 17343, explore the data through interactive maps.

**Click here to explore the data visually with CartoChrome maps and gain a deeper understanding of the COPD landscape in your area.**