17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.07 percent of the residents in 17813 has some form of health insurance. 42.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.62 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 17813 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 542 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17813. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 410 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 629 health care providers accessible to residents in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Beavertown, PA (ZIP Code 17813)

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within Beavertown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17813) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," will assess the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all critical factors in managing this debilitating respiratory illness. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to patients and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Beavertown, primary care availability is a crucial determinant of our score. A high COPD Score necessitates a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) accepting new patients and demonstrating a commitment to COPD screening, diagnosis, and ongoing management. This includes regular spirometry testing, medication management, and patient education. The presence of dedicated respiratory therapists within primary care practices significantly boosts the score, as they can provide specialized support and education.

Physician-to-patient ratios are another pivotal element. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per PCP, can strain resources and potentially limit the time a physician can dedicate to each patient. Conversely, a favorable ratio allows for more personalized care, more frequent follow-up appointments, and a better understanding of each patient's individual needs. This analysis will consider the average patient load of PCPs in the area, comparing it to national benchmarks to determine the impact on COPD care quality.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. Remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and online educational resources can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms, offer virtual pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and provide remote monitoring devices for patients with COPD will receive a higher score. The accessibility of these technologies, including broadband internet availability within the community, will also be considered.

Mental health is often overlooked in COPD management, yet it plays a critical role in patient well-being. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, impacting quality of life and treatment adherence. A high COPD Score requires readily available mental health resources, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, or the ease of referral to specialized mental health providers, is a key indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

Identifying standout practices in Beavertown is essential. Practices that demonstrate excellence in COPD care, evidenced by patient outcomes, adherence to national guidelines, and patient satisfaction, will be highlighted. This involves evaluating practices based on factors such as the availability of specialized equipment (e.g., pulmonary function testing), the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, and the provision of comprehensive patient education. The presence of certified COPD educators within a practice is a significant positive factor.

Specific practices within ZIP Code 17813 require in-depth investigation. We would need to assess the patient load of the Beavertown Medical Center, if one exists, or any other primary care facilities. The availability of pulmonologists or respiratory specialists in the immediate vicinity is also crucial. If patients must travel significant distances to access specialized care, it will negatively impact the score. We would investigate the presence of any outreach programs or community initiatives focused on COPD awareness and management.

Furthermore, this analysis will assess the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, are proven to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life for COPD patients. The presence of a readily accessible, high-quality pulmonary rehabilitation program is a major positive factor in the COPD Score. The program's accessibility for patients with mobility limitations will also be considered.

The analysis will also explore the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is a primary cause of COPD, and successful smoking cessation is crucial for slowing disease progression. Practices that offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs will receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of nicotine replacement therapy, counseling, and support groups.

Finally, the impact of socioeconomic factors on COPD care will be considered. Factors such as income levels, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can significantly influence a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. The analysis will consider the availability of resources to assist patients with financial barriers and transportation challenges.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Beavertown, PA (ZIP Code 17813) will be determined by a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of specialized COPD care programs. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to COPD management. The final score will serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas for improvement and promoting better care for individuals living with COPD.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Beavertown, including the location of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic data visualization. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.**