17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17730 has some form of health insurance. 78.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.57 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 17730 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 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17730. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 40 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,174 health care providers accessible to residents in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Dewart, PA (ZIP Code 17730)

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) specializing in the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within ZIP code 17730, which encompasses Dewart, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. A comprehensive "COPD Score" would incorporate several key factors, moving beyond simple physician counts to assess the overall healthcare landscape's ability to effectively manage this chronic respiratory illness. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a patient-centered COPD care model.

The initial hurdle is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the precise number of PCPs practicing within 17730, and specifically those with expertise in COPD management, is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide some information. However, this data often lacks the granularity needed for a truly accurate assessment. Furthermore, simply counting physicians doesn't account for their individual patient loads or the prevalence of COPD within the local population. A higher physician-to-patient ratio doesn't automatically equate to superior care. It's crucial to consider the physicians' experience, specialization, and the resources available within their practices.

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several criteria. Practices that prioritize comprehensive COPD management often employ a multidisciplinary approach. This includes not only PCPs but also respiratory therapists, pulmonologists (if accessible), and potentially nurses specializing in pulmonary care. The presence of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT) capabilities is another crucial factor. PFTs are essential for diagnosing and monitoring COPD. Practices that offer these services on-site provide a significant advantage to patients, streamlining the diagnostic process and facilitating more timely interventions. The integration of patient education programs, including smoking cessation support and self-management strategies, is also a strong indicator of a practice committed to optimal COPD care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Dewart. Telemedicine can improve access to care for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources are better equipped to manage COPD effectively. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and intervene proactively can help prevent exacerbations and hospitalizations, significantly improving quality of life. The "COPD Score" should reflect the availability and utilization of telemedicine services within the local healthcare system.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the impact of the disease on mental health. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that have established relationships with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling services, or provide referrals to mental health specialists demonstrate a commitment to addressing the holistic needs of their patients. The "COPD Score" must account for the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan.

The specific practices within 17730 require individual assessment. Researching local practices, including their websites, patient reviews, and publicly available information, is essential. This will help identify practices that excel in the areas discussed above. For example, practices that actively participate in COPD research, adhere to evidence-based guidelines, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement should be recognized. The "COPD Score" should reflect the quality of care provided by each practice, considering factors like patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment protocols, and outcomes data (if available).

It's important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. Data availability is often a significant challenge, particularly at the local level. The information gathered may be incomplete or outdated. Furthermore, the "COPD Score" is a subjective assessment based on the available information. It's not a definitive ranking but rather an attempt to evaluate the overall healthcare landscape's ability to effectively manage COPD within 17730.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD care landscape in Dewart, PA (ZIP Code 17730) demands a detailed evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability. The "COPD Score" should reflect a commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care. The specific practices within the area must be individually assessed, considering their resources, patient outcomes, and adherence to best practices. This analysis aims to provide insights into the healthcare options available to individuals with COPD in the Dewart area.

For a more in-depth, visual, and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dewart, PA, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed, allowing you to explore the healthcare options available to you or your loved ones.