17835, Laurelton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17835, Laurelton, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17835 has some form of health insurance. 56.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.62 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 17835 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17835. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,433 health care providers accessible to residents in 17835, Laurelton, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Laurelton, PA (ZIP Code 17835)**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP code 17835 (Laurelton, Pennsylvania), focusing on factors relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources – all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for COPD patients. This is a qualitative assessment, drawing on publicly available data and general industry trends.

Laurelton, a small community in central Pennsylvania, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. A key indicator of primary care availability is the physician-to-patient ratio. National averages provide a benchmark, but the specific ratio within 17835 requires local investigation. Public health departments, county medical societies, and online physician directories are potential sources for this information. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and ongoing care, particularly for a chronic condition like COPD. This could translate into delayed diagnoses, less frequent monitoring, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The presence of standout primary care practices is another vital factor. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative treatment approaches, and a commitment to patient education. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient reviews, online ratings (while often subjective, they provide a starting point), and information about the physicians' specializations and affiliations. Practices specializing in pulmonology or with a strong focus on respiratory health would be particularly beneficial for COPD patients. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in COPD-specific education programs or clinical trials would be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to follow-up appointments, medication management, and disease education. The availability of telehealth services within Laurelton's primary care practices is a critical consideration. This includes the use of video conferencing, remote monitoring devices (like those used to track oxygen saturation or peak flow), and secure online portals for communication. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients by providing convenient and accessible care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the management of chronic illnesses like COPD. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, significantly impacting a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is therefore essential. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, support groups, and educational resources. Practices that integrate mental health screening and treatment into their COPD care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Assessing the COPD score for Laurelton involves considering the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for COPD management, characterized by a good physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of high-quality primary care practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in accessing comprehensive care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes for COPD patients.

Specific data collection would be necessary to provide a precise COPD score. This would involve researching the physician-to-patient ratio in 17835, identifying and evaluating primary care practices, determining the extent of telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and local healthcare providers would be essential.

The investigation into the practices and resources available in Laurelton would also consider factors like the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, access to respiratory therapists, and the presence of a local hospital with a dedicated pulmonology department. These resources are crucial for managing COPD exacerbations, providing ongoing support, and improving patient outcomes.

Furthermore, it's important to consider the socioeconomic characteristics of the population in 17835. Factors like income levels, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can significantly impact healthcare access and utilization. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for ensuring equitable care for all COPD patients in the community.

Ultimately, the COPD score for Laurelton reflects the community's capacity to provide comprehensive and accessible care for individuals living with this chronic respiratory disease. This analysis serves as a starting point for a more detailed assessment, highlighting the key factors that influence COPD management and the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality in the community.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Laurelton and beyond? Explore the power of location-based data with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, resource distribution, and accessibility.