17814, Benton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.18 percent of the residents in 17814 has some form of health insurance. 41.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.61 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 17814 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 913 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17814. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,178 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,257 health care providers accessible to residents in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care and COPD Management in Benton, PA (ZIP Code 17814)**

Analyzing the availability of primary care and the quality of COPD management within Benton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17814) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," considers factors crucial for effective COPD care, including physician accessibility, resource utilization, and the integration of supportive services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the current landscape and identify areas for improvement, ultimately benefiting the residents of Benton managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). In Benton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures require accessing current data, a review of publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards would be necessary to determine the actual ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would negatively impact the COPD Score. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent follow-up appointments, and reduced access to vital medications and therapies. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating more PCPs per capita, would positively influence the score, suggesting better access to care.

Within Benton, the presence of standout practices is a significant factor. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in COPD management requires evaluating several key criteria. These include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for COPD diagnosis and treatment, the utilization of spirometry and other diagnostic tools, and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that consistently monitor patient outcomes, provide personalized care plans, and actively engage patients in self-management strategies would receive higher marks. The availability of respiratory therapists and other specialized healthcare professionals within a practice would also contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Benton. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for managing COPD by providing remote consultations, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher score. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas, allowing them to receive timely care and avoid unnecessary travel. The integration of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine by providing real-time data on a patient's respiratory status.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, would receive a higher score. This includes access to therapists, support groups, and educational resources to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of living with COPD. The availability of these resources can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, enhance their quality of life, and ultimately improve their overall health outcomes.

Specific examples of practices and resources within ZIP code 17814 are essential for a detailed analysis. Identifying the names and locations of primary care practices in the area is a necessary step. Researching the services offered by each practice, including their approach to COPD management, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health integration, is crucial. Publicly available information, such as online reviews, practice websites, and health insurance provider directories, can provide valuable insights. Furthermore, contacting local healthcare providers directly to gather information about their services and approach to COPD care would be beneficial.

The presence of specialized COPD clinics or pulmonary rehabilitation programs in or near Benton would also significantly impact the COPD Score. These programs offer comprehensive care, including exercise training, breathing techniques, and education about COPD management. The availability of these specialized resources would positively influence the score, indicating a higher level of care and support for patients. The proximity of these programs to the residents of Benton is also a crucial factor, as accessibility is essential for patient participation and adherence.

In assessing primary care availability in Benton, the analysis should also consider the insurance landscape. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is critical for ensuring access to care for all residents, especially those with limited financial resources. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to serving the community. Additionally, the availability of financial assistance programs for patients struggling to afford medications or other healthcare expenses would also be a positive factor.

Analyzing the overall COPD Score for Benton, PA (ZIP code 17814) requires synthesizing all the above information. A scoring system, perhaps on a scale of 1 to 10, could be developed, with each factor weighted according to its importance. The final score would reflect the overall quality of COPD care available in the area. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater emphasis on patient-centered care. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as the need for more PCPs, increased telemedicine adoption, or improved mental health resources.

The analysis would also identify any specific challenges or barriers to care faced by residents of Benton. This could include transportation issues, language barriers, or a lack of awareness about COPD management. Addressing these challenges is essential for improving the overall health outcomes of patients with COPD. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is crucial for implementing effective solutions.

In conclusion, improving the COPD Score for Benton requires a multifaceted approach. It demands a focus on increasing the availability of primary care, promoting the adoption of evidence-based COPD management practices, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health resources. By addressing these key areas, Benton can create a healthcare environment that supports the well-being of individuals living with COPD.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics within Benton and the surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive way to explore the data, revealing patterns and insights that might not be apparent through traditional methods.