17841, Mc Clure, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17841, Mc Clure, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.37 percent of the residents in 17841 has some form of health insurance. 43.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.05 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 17841 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,106 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17841. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 973 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 741 health care providers accessible to residents in 17841, Mc Clure, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on evaluating the quality of COPD care and primary care accessibility in the McClure area (ZIP code 17841), Pennsylvania, considering factors such as physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and those seeking primary care services.

McClure, Pennsylvania, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often translates to lower physician-to-patient ratios compared to more urban settings. This can affect access to timely appointments and specialized care, particularly for a chronic condition like COPD, which requires consistent monitoring and management. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians is crucial, as they typically serve as the initial point of contact for patients with respiratory symptoms and can facilitate referrals to pulmonologists when necessary.

The physician-to-patient ratio in McClure is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall trend in rural areas often reveals a shortage of medical professionals. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see a doctor, and potentially reduced access to preventative care and disease management programs. The analysis needs to consider the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 17841 ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide valuable insights into these ratios.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of care depends on the practices and resources available. Identifying standout practices in McClure is essential. These practices might demonstrate excellence in COPD management, patient education, or the use of innovative technologies. Factors to consider include the availability of on-site pulmonary function testing, access to respiratory therapists, and participation in COPD-specific disease management programs. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can also offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for bridging the healthcare gap in rural communities. Its adoption in McClure could significantly improve COPD care access. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and enabling more frequent check-ups. The analysis should investigate the extent to which local primary care practices and specialists offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals. The availability of reliable internet connectivity, a common challenge in rural areas, is also a crucial factor in assessing the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine implementation.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Individuals with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges due to the chronic nature of the disease and its impact on their daily lives. The availability of mental health resources within the 17841 ZIP code is therefore a critical component of a comprehensive COPD care assessment. The analysis should examine the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, and the availability of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is also essential to ensure integrated care.

Specific examples of practices and their attributes are hard to find, as this is a hypothetical analysis. However, a thorough investigation would look for practices that prioritize patient education on COPD management, including proper inhaler technique, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. Practices that offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, would also be considered highly valuable. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate communication and care coordination is another factor that can improve the quality of care.

The analysis needs to consider the availability of support groups and community resources for individuals with COPD. These groups provide a platform for patients to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn from each other. Local hospitals, community centers, and the American Lung Association are potential sources of information about these resources. The analysis should also assess the accessibility of pharmacies within the 17841 ZIP code, as timely access to medications is crucial for managing COPD.

Evaluating the overall COPD score for doctors in the 17841 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of patient support programs. The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence healthcare access, such as insurance coverage and transportation options.

The final COPD score would be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in McClure. This score could be presented using a grading system (e.g., A, B, C, D, F) or a numerical scale, with higher scores indicating better access to and quality of COPD care. The analysis should also identify areas for improvement, such as the need for more physicians, increased telemedicine adoption, and enhanced mental health services.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape in McClure, Pennsylvania, presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals with COPD and those seeking primary care. Addressing the issues of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration is crucial to improving the quality of care. The analysis should provide actionable recommendations for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to enhance healthcare access and outcomes in the area.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in McClure, Pennsylvania, and gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.