17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.89 percent of the residents in 17363 has some form of health insurance. 32.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.34 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 17363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,692 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17363. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,721 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,776 health care providers accessible to residents in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Stewartstown, PA (ZIP Code 17363)

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care and the potential for effective COPD management within the Stewartstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17363) area. Our focus is on assessing the resources available to patients, evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, highlighting standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and identifying the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive COPD care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

The foundation of any COPD management strategy is access to a primary care physician (PCP). Within ZIP code 17363, the density of PCPs directly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and coordinated care. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed interventions. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a more readily accessible healthcare system. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health, would be crucial in determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio in this area. This data would need to be supplemented by information on the number of practicing pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, key specialists in the management of COPD.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in COPD care. This often involves a multi-faceted approach, including early and accurate diagnosis, patient education, personalized treatment plans, and proactive management of exacerbations. Identifying such practices requires a review of patient testimonials, practice reviews, and data on patient outcomes. Key indicators include the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFTs) within the practice, the presence of certified respiratory educators, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to continuing medical education for their staff are also likely to be delivering superior care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like COPD. It allows patients to receive remote consultations, monitor their symptoms, and access educational resources without the need for frequent in-person visits. The adoption of telemedicine within the primary care practices in 17363 is a critical factor in our assessment. Practices that offer telehealth options, such as virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices (e.g., pulse oximeters), and access to online educational materials, are better positioned to support patients in managing their COPD effectively. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial consideration, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine.

The psychological impact of COPD is often underestimated. Chronic respiratory illness can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive COPD care. The analysis must assess the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the primary care practices or within the local community. The ability of patients to access mental health services, either through referrals from their PCP or through independent means, is a significant factor in their overall well-being and their ability to adhere to treatment plans. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals are integrated into primary care practices, are particularly beneficial.

The analysis will also consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs provide supervised exercise, education, and support to help patients improve their lung function, manage their symptoms, and enhance their quality of life. The presence of a pulmonary rehabilitation program within or near the 17363 ZIP code is a positive indicator of the community's commitment to comprehensive COPD care. The program's accessibility, including factors such as cost, location, and transportation options, is also important.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the availability of support groups and educational resources for COPD patients and their families. These resources can provide valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community. The presence of local support groups, online forums, and educational materials from organizations such as the American Lung Association or the COPD Foundation can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The assessment of primary care availability in Stewartstown, PA, requires a comprehensive approach. This involves gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of care provided by local practices, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, and identifying the availability of mental health resources and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The analysis must also consider the availability of support groups and educational resources. By evaluating these factors, a more complete understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17363 can be achieved, and recommendations can be made to improve the quality of care for COPD patients in the community.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the resources available to COPD patients in Stewartstown, PA. This information can be used by healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance the quality of COPD care in the community. A thorough understanding of the local healthcare landscape is essential for ensuring that patients with COPD receive the timely, effective, and compassionate care they deserve.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Stewartstown, PA, and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform allows you to visualize physician locations, healthcare resources, and demographic data, providing a comprehensive and insightful perspective on healthcare access and availability. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a new perspective on the health of your community.