17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.61 percent of the residents in 17868 has some form of health insurance. 32.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.42 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 17868 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 177 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17868. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 297 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,339 health care providers accessible to residents in 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Riverside, PA (ZIP Code 17868)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the quality of care and resources available to individuals in Riverside, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17868) managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The evaluation considers factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician accessibility, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support, all within the context of primary care. This is not a definitive ranking, but an informed assessment based on available public data and general best practices.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on readily available primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in Riverside, and indeed the broader Northumberland County, is a key indicator. While precise local figures are often difficult to obtain publicly, general data suggests a potential shortage of PCPs, especially in rural areas. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments for COPD patients. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, is also a critical factor. Limited access to these specialists can hinder the ability to manage complex COPD cases effectively.

The quality of care provided by individual practices varies. Assessing this requires examining several aspects. One crucial element is the practice's commitment to evidence-based COPD management guidelines. This includes regular pulmonary function testing (spirometry), smoking cessation counseling, and the appropriate prescription and monitoring of medications. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, providing resources on disease management, inhaler techniques, and exacerbation recognition, are likely to provide superior care. Furthermore, the integration of a multidisciplinary approach, involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and potentially social workers, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Standout practices in the area may be those that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and implementing strategies to enhance care delivery. These practices might utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate efficient communication and coordination of care among different providers. They might also have established protocols for managing COPD exacerbations, ensuring timely access to care when patients experience a worsening of their symptoms. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles, patient reviews (where available), and potentially data from local healthcare organizations.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like COPD, particularly in rural settings. Its adoption by primary care practices in Riverside is a significant factor in this analysis. Telemedicine can improve access to care by enabling remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of patients' symptoms. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially reduce the burden of travel for patients, especially those with limited mobility or who live far from healthcare facilities. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track oxygen saturation or peak flow, can further enhance the ability to manage COPD patients effectively.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges due to the chronic nature of the disease and its impact on their quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. This includes access to counseling, support groups, and potentially medication management for mental health conditions.

The integration of these factors paints a picture of the COPD care landscape in Riverside. The analysis must consider the availability of PCPs and specialists, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The ideal scenario involves a robust network of healthcare providers who are committed to evidence-based COPD management, utilize technology to enhance care delivery, and address the psychological needs of their patients.

To further enhance this analysis, a deeper investigation into specific practices is needed. This includes examining their adherence to COPD guidelines, their use of telemedicine, and their integration of mental health services. Patient reviews and feedback can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided. Data from local healthcare organizations and public health agencies can also contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available to COPD patients in Riverside.

The assessment of primary care availability in Riverside is inextricably linked to the COPD score. A robust primary care system, with sufficient physician-to-patient ratios, timely appointment availability, and a commitment to comprehensive care, is essential for effective COPD management. This includes not only the medical aspects of the disease but also the mental and social support needed for patients to live fulfilling lives.

The overall COPD score for Riverside, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. It is not simply a measure of the number of doctors available, but rather a holistic assessment of the resources and services available to support patients in managing their condition effectively. The score is dynamic, changing with the evolving healthcare landscape, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of innovative care models.

To visualize and better understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician availability, and other relevant factors, we recommend exploring the power of mapping. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape in Riverside and surrounding areas.

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