17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 60.13 percent of the residents in 17747 has some form of health insurance. 26.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.95 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 17747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,335 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 720 health care providers accessible to residents in 17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17747 & Primary Care in Loganton

Analyzing the COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) landscape within ZIP Code 17747, specifically focusing on Loganton, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, a critical factor in managing COPD, alongside related elements like physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. The goal is to assess the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the needs of individuals living with, or at risk of, COPD.

The foundation of COPD management rests on accessible and competent primary care physicians. In Loganton, the availability of these crucial medical professionals directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing treatment, and preventative care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a vital first step. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. This, in turn, can exacerbate COPD symptoms and increase the risk of exacerbations.

Unfortunately, precise physician-to-patient ratios for Loganton alone are often difficult to ascertain due to data aggregation at the county or regional level. However, analyzing data from the surrounding Clinton County area provides a valuable, albeit broader, perspective. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into primary care access points, including the number of practicing physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. These metrics, when combined with population data, allow for a rough estimate of the physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This encompasses factors such as the physicians' experience in treating respiratory conditions, their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, and their ability to provide comprehensive care. This includes spirometry testing for diagnosis, medication management, pulmonary rehabilitation referrals, and patient education on self-management techniques. Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence in COPD care, potentially through specialized training, participation in quality improvement initiatives, and positive patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect to evaluate. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Loganton. It offers the potential to improve access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and provide ongoing monitoring and support. Examining the availability of telemedicine services among local primary care practices is essential. This includes assessing whether physicians offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and electronic prescription services. The level of telemedicine integration can significantly impact the ability of COPD patients to manage their condition effectively, particularly during times of exacerbation or when access to in-person appointments is limited.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of COPD care. Living with COPD can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is vital for addressing these issues. Assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the Loganton area is important. Furthermore, evaluating the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is crucial. This includes the availability of mental health screenings, referrals to mental health specialists, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and mental health providers.

The specific practices in Loganton need a deeper dive to assess their capabilities. Researching individual practices will reveal their specialties, patient reviews, and the scope of services offered. Websites, online directories, and patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Identifying practices that have a demonstrated commitment to COPD management, through specialized training, participation in quality improvement initiatives, and positive patient outcomes, is critical.

The presence of support groups and educational programs specifically for COPD patients is also an important factor. These resources can provide patients with valuable information, peer support, and self-management skills. Assessing the availability of these programs within the Loganton area can help determine the level of support available to patients. Partnerships between primary care practices and local organizations, such as the American Lung Association, can enhance the availability of these resources.

The geographic challenges of Loganton, a rural community, further emphasize the importance of accessible healthcare. Long travel distances to reach medical facilities can be a barrier to care for many residents. This makes telemedicine and mobile healthcare options particularly valuable. Evaluating the availability of these services within the area is essential.

In conclusion, a comprehensive COPD score for doctors in ZIP Code 17747, specifically Loganton, requires a detailed assessment of several factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources are all crucial elements. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness within the local healthcare system and to highlight opportunities for improvement. This includes identifying standout practices, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and ensuring access to mental health support.

To further investigate and visualize the healthcare landscape of Loganton and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the distribution of healthcare access points.