17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.65 percent of the residents in 17920 has some form of health insurance. 50.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.61 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 17920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 24 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17920. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 110 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,915 health care providers accessible to residents in 17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17920 and Primary Care Availability in Aristes

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care resources within ZIP Code 17920, focusing on the specific needs of individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Aristes, a community within this ZIP code, serves as a focal point for assessing primary care accessibility. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive COPD care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP Code 17920, and specifically within the Aristes area, presents a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can create significant barriers to accessing timely and consistent care. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or management of COPD symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups, proactive management of exacerbations, and improved patient outcomes. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, within a reasonable distance is also vital. COPD management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, and easy access to specialized expertise is paramount.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality COPD care through various means. This could include employing certified respiratory therapists, offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing, and implementing patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or adhere to the latest COPD guidelines are also indicators of excellence. Furthermore, the adoption of patient-centered care models, such as shared decision-making and personalized treatment plans, can significantly improve patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment regimens. Practices that prioritize clear communication and provide readily available resources for patients are often highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management support. For individuals in rural areas like Aristes, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, reducing the need for frequent travel to medical facilities. This is particularly beneficial during exacerbations or periods of instability. The availability of telehealth services, including remote monitoring of oxygen saturation levels and spirometry, can help to prevent hospitalizations and improve overall disease management. The ease of use of the technology and the availability of technical support are also key considerations for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet crucial, aspect of COPD care. Living with COPD can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for providing holistic care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD management programs demonstrate a commitment to addressing the psychological well-being of their patients. This can involve screening for mental health conditions, providing referrals to mental health professionals, and offering educational resources on coping mechanisms and stress management techniques. The integration of mental health services can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Assessing primary care availability in Aristes requires specific investigation. The number of primary care physicians practicing within the immediate vicinity is a primary factor. Analyzing the practice’s acceptance of new patients is also important. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, especially for urgent care needs, is critical for COPD patients. The clinic’s operating hours and weekend availability are also important considerations. The clinic’s accessibility for patients with mobility limitations, including wheelchair accessibility and convenient parking, is also a key factor.

The overall COPD score for doctors in ZIP Code 17920, and specifically in the Aristes area, is a composite measure reflecting all these factors. It is not a simple numerical value but a nuanced assessment that considers the interplay of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to meet the needs of COPD patients, while a low score suggests areas for improvement. The COPD score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available.

This analysis underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to COPD care, emphasizing the need for accessible, high-quality primary care, the innovative use of technology, and the integration of mental health services. Understanding the specific needs of COPD patients and tailoring healthcare resources accordingly is crucial for improving patient outcomes and enhancing quality of life. The availability of detailed information on physician-to-patient ratios, practice profiles, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential for patients to make informed decisions about their care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17920 and beyond, and to visually explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider leveraging the power of geographic data. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of physicians, assess the accessibility of primary care facilities, and explore the availability of specialized services. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, you can gain valuable insights into the healthcare environment and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.