17886, West Milton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17886, West Milton, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 64.59 percent of the residents in 17886 has some form of health insurance. 44.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.63 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 17886 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 367 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17886. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 251 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,572 health care providers accessible to residents in 17886, West Milton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: West Milton, PA (ZIP Code 17886) - Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the primary care landscape in West Milton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17886) requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when considering the prevalence and management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," assesses the accessibility, quality, and resources available to patients in this specific geographic area. It moves beyond simple metrics to evaluate the holistic support system crucial for effective COPD management.

The foundation of any COPD score rests on the availability of primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. While specific, granular data is often proprietary, publicly available information from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide a starting point. Examining these resources, coupled with data from insurance providers, allows for an estimation of the patient-to-physician ratio within the 17886 ZIP code. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care, a vital component of a strong COPD score. This initial assessment should also consider the age and health profile of the population in West Milton, as an older demographic often correlates with a higher prevalence of COPD.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians matters. Are they clustered in a single location, or are they spread across the community, including satellite clinics or outreach programs? Proximity to care is a significant factor in patient adherence to treatment plans and regular check-ups, both crucial for managing COPD. The analysis should identify the geographical distribution of practices, considering travel times and accessibility for patients with limited mobility, a common symptom of COPD.

Identifying standout practices is a key element of this COPD score analysis. This involves looking at several factors. Firstly, the presence of physicians with specific expertise in pulmonary medicine or a demonstrated commitment to COPD management is essential. This could be evidenced by board certifications, participation in continuing medical education focused on respiratory illnesses, or the implementation of evidence-based COPD treatment guidelines. Secondly, the adoption of technology plays a crucial role. Electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate care coordination, medication management, and patient education are vital. Practices that utilize these systems effectively are likely to offer superior care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide educational resources online can significantly improve COPD management, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The analysis should investigate which practices in West Milton offer telemedicine services, the types of services provided (e.g., virtual check-ups, medication refills, remote monitoring), and the accessibility of these services to patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly enhance their COPD score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are critical. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices themselves or through referrals to external providers. This includes assessing the presence of on-site therapists or counselors, the availability of mental health screenings, and the ease of access to mental health support. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans will receive a higher COPD score.

The quality of patient education and support programs also significantly impacts the COPD score. Does the practice offer educational materials on COPD management, including information on medication adherence, breathing techniques, and lifestyle modifications? Are there support groups or pulmonary rehabilitation programs available in the community? The analysis should identify the availability and accessibility of these resources and assess their effectiveness in empowering patients to manage their condition. A comprehensive approach to patient education can dramatically improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the availability of ancillary services crucial for COPD management. This includes access to pulmonary function testing (PFT) within the practice or through readily accessible referral networks. The availability of respiratory therapists who can provide education and support is also important. Practices that have established relationships with these ancillary providers can offer a more holistic approach to care.

The analysis should also consider the practice's commitment to preventative care. This includes offering influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations, which are crucial for preventing respiratory infections that can exacerbate COPD symptoms. The analysis should assess the practice's vaccination rates and its strategies for promoting vaccination among its patients.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD score for doctors in West Milton, PA (ZIP Code 17886) involves a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of practices, the adoption of technology like telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of patient education and support programs, and the availability of ancillary services. The analysis should identify standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered COPD care. This holistic approach allows for a more accurate assessment of the resources available to patients and the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in managing this chronic disease.

For a more detailed, visually rich, and geographically informed understanding of the primary care landscape in West Milton, PA, and its impact on COPD management, we encourage you to explore the power of geospatial analysis. **Contact CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and gain deeper insights into the accessibility and availability of care in your community.**