17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.08 percent of the residents in 17888 has some form of health insurance. 35.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.37 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 17888 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17888. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 100 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a hypothetical COPD Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 17888, focusing on their capacity to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the overall healthcare landscape in Wilburton, Pennsylvania. This assessment considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice features, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, crucial elements for effective COPD care.

Wilburton, nestled in Northumberland County, presents unique challenges. Its rural setting often means limited access to specialized medical care and a potentially older demographic, increasing the prevalence of COPD. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare resources available, specifically for COPD patients.

The COPD Score, in this context, isn’t a standardized metric but a qualitative assessment reflecting the preparedness of local PCPs to address the needs of COPD patients. It considers the following elements: the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code; the estimated patient population; the availability of specialized respiratory care; the adoption of telehealth services; and the presence of integrated mental health support. Each element is weighted based on its perceived importance in delivering comprehensive COPD care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator. A high ratio, indicating a larger patient load per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time a PCP can dedicate to each patient. In a rural area like Wilburton, recruitment and retention of physicians can be challenging, potentially exacerbating this issue. A thorough analysis would involve comparing the PCP-to-population ratio in 17888 to regional and national averages. A lower ratio would positively impact the COPD Score, suggesting better access to primary care.

Standout practices within the ZIP code would significantly influence the score. A practice that actively embraces evidence-based COPD management, including regular spirometry testing, patient education programs, and personalized treatment plans, would receive a higher rating. The presence of certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) within the practice or readily accessible through referral networks is also critical. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives related to COPD care, such as those tracked by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), would also contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas. Telehealth allows PCPs to remotely monitor patients' conditions, provide medication management support, and conduct virtual follow-up appointments. Practices offering telehealth services, particularly for COPD patients, would receive a significant boost to their COPD Score. This includes the availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, that allow patients to track their lung function at home and share the data with their physician.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial component. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would receive a higher score. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups specializing in chronic respiratory conditions.

Specific examples of practices in the area are difficult to provide without real-world data. However, a hypothetical practice, "Wilburton Family Health," could serve as an example. If this practice demonstrated a low patient-to-physician ratio, actively used spirometry to diagnose and monitor COPD, offered telehealth consultations for medication refills and symptom management, and had a partnership with a local mental health clinic, it would receive a high COPD Score. Conversely, a practice with a high patient load, limited diagnostic capabilities, no telehealth options, and no mental health support would receive a lower score.

The availability of specialized respiratory care is a key consideration. While PCPs are the first point of contact, access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is essential for managing complex COPD cases. The distance to the nearest pulmonologist and the ease of referral processes would influence the COPD Score. Proximity to hospitals with respiratory care units and access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs are also important factors.

The assessment would also consider the availability of patient education materials and programs. Practices that provide patients with educational resources on COPD management, including information on medication adherence, smoking cessation, and breathing techniques, would be favorably evaluated. The availability of support groups and educational classes would also enhance the score.

Furthermore, the analysis would delve into the socioeconomic factors affecting the community. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food options can all negatively impact COPD management. The assessment would consider whether practices are aware of these challenges and have programs or partnerships to address them.

The overall COPD Score would be a composite of these factors. It would provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Wilburton, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local primary care system in addressing the needs of COPD patients. It would not be a definitive ranking but rather a tool to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the quality of care available.

Ultimately, improving the COPD Score for ZIP code 17888 requires a multifaceted approach. This includes recruiting and retaining qualified PCPs, promoting the adoption of telehealth technologies, strengthening partnerships with mental health providers, and ensuring access to specialized respiratory care. Addressing the socioeconomic challenges faced by the community is also crucial.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographical mapping of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive and interactive overview of the healthcare landscape in Wilburton, allowing for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities for improving COPD care.