17518, Drumore, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17518, Drumore, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 60.20 percent of the residents in 17518 has some form of health insurance. 22.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.96 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 17518 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 629 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17518. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,222 health care providers accessible to residents in 17518, Drumore, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Drumore, PA (ZIP Code 17518)

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and the resources available to manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within the Drumore, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17518) area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in effectively addressing the needs of COPD patients. Due to the nature of the request, this analysis is based on publicly available information and estimations.

The first critical aspect is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this accurately involves considering the total population of Drumore, the number of actively practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code, and the patient load each physician carries. Publicly available data from the U.S. Census Bureau estimates the population of Drumore, PA, and surrounding areas. However, isolating the exact number of primary care physicians practicing solely within the 17518 ZIP code is challenging. Resources like the Pennsylvania Medical Society directory and online physician finders can provide a starting point. These resources, combined with data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on physician participation, offer a general understanding. The resulting ratio, however, is likely an estimate. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to care, a significant concern for COPD patients who require timely intervention and regular monitoring.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires evaluating several factors. These include the practice's commitment to COPD management, the availability of specialized equipment, and the integration of evidence-based practices. Practices that actively participate in COPD education programs, offer pulmonary function testing (PFT) on-site, and have a dedicated respiratory therapist on staff are considered strong contenders. Reviews from patients on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc can also offer insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to COPD management, including regular follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, are particularly valuable.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including remote monitoring of patients' conditions, virtual consultations, and medication management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, enabling remote monitoring of vital signs and offering virtual appointments, are better positioned to provide accessible and convenient care. This is especially crucial for patients in rural areas, where access to in-person appointments may be limited. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between patients and their physicians, allowing for more frequent check-ins and adjustments to treatment plans as needed.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the management of COPD, but they are critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and offer access to mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. The availability of mental health support can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, enhance their overall well-being, and reduce the burden of COPD.

In the context of Drumore, PA, the availability of these resources is likely to be somewhat limited compared to more urban areas. The rural nature of the area may pose challenges in terms of physician recruitment, access to specialized equipment, and the availability of mental health services. However, the implementation of telemedicine can help bridge the gap, providing patients with access to care regardless of their location. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive COPD management programs, and integrate mental health support are likely to stand out as leaders in the area.

Assessing the specific practices in Drumore requires a deeper dive into the publicly available information. Searching online directories for primary care physicians in the 17518 ZIP code and reviewing patient feedback can provide valuable insights. Contacting local hospitals and clinics to inquire about their COPD management programs and telemedicine capabilities can also be beneficial. Additionally, exploring the availability of support groups and educational resources for COPD patients in the area can help paint a more complete picture of the resources available.

The evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios in Drumore will likely reveal a need for more primary care providers. This shortage can be addressed through various strategies, including physician recruitment initiatives, the expansion of telehealth services, and the utilization of nurse practitioners and physician assistants to provide care. Furthermore, promoting collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists, such as pulmonologists, can improve the overall quality of care for COPD patients.

In conclusion, managing COPD effectively in Drumore, PA, requires a multifaceted approach. The availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all play a crucial role. While challenges may exist due to the rural nature of the area, practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and offer comprehensive support services are best positioned to meet the needs of COPD patients.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and demographic data related to COPD prevalence in Drumore, PA, and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform can provide valuable insights and aid in understanding the complex interplay of factors influencing COPD management in this region.