17582, Washington Boro, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17582, Washington Boro, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.03 percent of the residents in 17582 has some form of health insurance. 35.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.88 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 17582 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 408 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 24 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17582. An estimate of 296 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 393 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21,944 health care providers accessible to residents in 17582, Washington Boro, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17582 and Primary Care in Washington Boro

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and related resources in Washington Boro (ZIP Code 17582) is crucial, especially when considering the prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis will provide a 'COPD Score' assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all vital for effective COPD management.

Washington Boro, a small community in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The demographic profile, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, likely influences the prevalence of COPD and the demand for primary care services. A higher percentage of older adults, for instance, could translate to a greater need for specialized respiratory care and ongoing management of COPD symptoms.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a fundamental step. The ideal ratio is subjective, but a lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. Data from state and national sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Department of Health & Human Services, would be essential to determine the exact ratio for 17582. This data should be compared to both county and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care. A shortage of physicians would significantly impact the 'COPD Score,' potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and poorer patient outcomes.

Beyond sheer numbers, the types of practices available are significant. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or larger healthcare systems represented in Washington Boro? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and greater access to specialists, which can be particularly beneficial for COPD patients who may require pulmonary specialists, respiratory therapists, and access to diagnostic equipment like spirometry. The presence of practices affiliated with larger health systems can also facilitate referrals to specialized care and provide access to more advanced resources.

Identifying standout practices within 17582 is critical. These practices could be recognized for their commitment to COPD management, perhaps through specialized programs, patient education initiatives, or a focus on early diagnosis and intervention. Information about a practice's approach to COPD care, including their use of evidence-based guidelines, patient satisfaction scores, and participation in quality improvement programs, would be valuable. This could be gathered through patient reviews, practice websites, and by contacting the practices directly.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for managing COPD, enabling remote monitoring of patients' symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more convenient and accessible care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. The 'COPD Score' would be positively impacted by the presence of telemedicine services, particularly if they include remote monitoring of vital signs and personalized support.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD care, yet they are crucial. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external therapists and counselors, are better equipped to provide holistic care. The availability of mental health support would significantly improve the 'COPD Score,' reflecting a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Evaluating the availability of respiratory therapists and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is also essential. Respiratory therapists play a vital role in educating patients about COPD management, providing breathing exercises, and assisting with medication delivery. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs offer structured exercise and education, improving lung function and overall quality of life. The presence of these resources within the community, or easily accessible nearby, would contribute positively to the 'COPD Score.'

The availability of patient education materials and support groups also plays a significant role. Patients with COPD benefit from access to reliable information about their condition, including medication management, lifestyle modifications, and strategies for managing exacerbations. Support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, sharing experiences and providing emotional support. Practices that actively promote patient education and support groups would receive a higher 'COPD Score.'

The 'COPD Score' would be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted importance of each factor. Physician-to-patient ratio, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of respiratory therapy and patient education would all be considered. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a more comprehensive approach to COPD management, and a greater likelihood of positive patient outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the 'COPD Score' for Washington Boro (ZIP Code 17582) requires a detailed examination of the local healthcare landscape. The analysis must consider physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and the availability of specialized resources. The resulting score provides a valuable snapshot of the community's capacity to manage COPD effectively, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Washington Boro and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can help you visualize physician locations, practice types, and other relevant data, providing a valuable tool for understanding healthcare access in the community.