17517, Denver, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17517, Denver, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.31 percent of the residents in 17517 has some form of health insurance. 28.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.34 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 17517 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,958 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17517. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,151 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,946 health care providers accessible to residents in 17517, Denver, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: 17517 Doctors & Denver Primary Care

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients within ZIP code 17517 (Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania) and the broader primary care landscape in Denver, Colorado. The evaluation framework, termed the “COPD Score,” considers factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to COPD sufferers in these two distinct geographical areas.

**Elizabethtown, PA (ZIP Code 17517): A Microcosm of Rural Healthcare Challenges**

Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, presents a typical example of challenges faced by rural communities in providing adequate healthcare. The COPD Score for this area is influenced by several key factors. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas is essential. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, would negatively impact the COPD Score. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment.

The specialization of practices in 17517 is also a significant consideration. The presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and dedicated COPD clinics would positively influence the score. Conversely, a lack of specialized care necessitates patients traveling to larger urban centers for treatment, adding to the burden of managing a chronic illness. The COPD Score will reflect the availability of these specialized resources.

Telemedicine adoption, a crucial element in modern healthcare, is another factor. The utilization of telemedicine for COPD management can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The COPD Score will assess the availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of virtual platforms for patient education and support.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic respiratory illnesses, but they are critical. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score will evaluate the availability of mental health services, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups within the community. A strong network of mental health professionals will improve the COPD Score.

**Denver, CO: Navigating a Large Urban Healthcare Ecosystem**

Denver, Colorado, offers a contrasting healthcare landscape to Elizabethtown. While it benefits from a larger population and a more robust healthcare infrastructure, challenges remain. The COPD Score in Denver will reflect a different set of considerations. The physician-to-patient ratio in Denver will likely be higher than in Elizabethtown, but the distribution of physicians across the city is crucial. Access to care can be uneven, with some areas experiencing shortages while others have an abundance of providers. The COPD Score will assess the geographic distribution of primary care physicians and pulmonologists.

The specialization of practices in Denver is another critical factor. The city boasts a diverse range of healthcare providers, including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized COPD clinics. The COPD Score will reflect the availability of these specialized resources and the ease with which patients can access them. The presence of large hospitals and medical centers with dedicated respiratory departments will positively influence the score.

Telemedicine adoption in Denver is likely to be more advanced than in Elizabethtown. The COPD Score will assess the availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of virtual platforms for patient education and support. The presence of innovative telehealth programs and the adoption of digital health tools will positively influence the score.

Mental health resources are also a critical consideration in Denver. The COPD Score will evaluate the availability of mental health services, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The presence of specialized mental health programs for patients with chronic illnesses will improve the score. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices will also positively influence the score.

**Standout Practices and Considerations**

In both locations, identifying standout practices is essential. In Elizabethtown, a practice that offers comprehensive COPD management, including pulmonary rehabilitation, telemedicine options, and integrated mental health services, would receive a high score. In Denver, practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technological advancements, and offer specialized COPD programs would be highlighted. The COPD Score will consider factors such as patient satisfaction, treatment outcomes, and the use of evidence-based practices.

**Conclusion: Mapping the Path to Better COPD Care**

The COPD Score provides a framework for evaluating the availability and quality of care for COPD patients in specific geographical areas. By considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, the score offers a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in COPD management. Both Elizabethtown and Denver present unique challenges and opportunities.

For a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and to visualize the COPD Score data for both locations, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps allow you to analyze physician density, practice locations, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape. **Visit CartoChrome to unlock the power of geospatial data and gain a clearer understanding of COPD care accessibility in your area.**