17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17933 has some form of health insurance. 63.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.37 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 17933 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17933. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 98 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,708 health care providers accessible to residents in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933)**

Friedensburg, Pennsylvania, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique challenge when analyzing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) care. A comprehensive 'COPD Score' analysis, considering factors like physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health resources, is crucial to understanding the landscape of care for residents battling this debilitating respiratory illness. This analysis focuses on the doctors practicing within ZIP code 17933 and the availability of primary care services in Friedensburg, aiming to provide a clear picture of the current state and suggest potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in accessible and competent primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, often translates to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, both detrimental to COPD patients. Research is required to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Friedensburg. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and professional medical associations can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the overall population. This data will allow us to determine the ratio and evaluate its adequacy relative to national and state averages.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is equally important. Evaluating practices involves assessing factors like the availability of specialized equipment for COPD diagnosis and management (e.g., spirometry), the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols, and the experience of the physicians in treating COPD. Reviews from patients, available through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, physician communication skills, and the overall patient experience. Furthermore, understanding the practice's integration with local pulmonologists and respiratory therapists is vital for ensuring seamless care coordination, which is critical for managing the complexities of COPD.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Its adoption in Friedensburg's primary care practices is a significant factor in the COPD Score. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be particularly challenging for patients with breathing difficulties. The availability of virtual monitoring tools, such as devices that track oxygen saturation or peak flow, can further enhance remote care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption requires examining the practices' websites, contacting the offices directly, and reviewing patient testimonials to determine the availability of telehealth services.

COPD often co-exists with mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. These conditions can exacerbate COPD symptoms and worsen overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a critical component of the COPD Score. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, or have established referral pathways to local mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing this aspect involves investigating the practices' websites, inquiring about mental health services during phone calls, and reviewing patient feedback to determine the availability and accessibility of these crucial resources.

Identifying standout practices within Friedensburg is essential. These practices may demonstrate excellence in COPD care through a combination of factors, including a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, experienced physicians, advanced technological integration, and a strong focus on mental health support. These practices can serve as models for other providers, demonstrating best practices and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Researching these practices involves analyzing patient reviews, examining the practices' websites, and potentially contacting the offices to inquire about their specific approaches to COPD management.

The overall COPD Score for Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933), is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. It reflects the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of the practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for COPD patients, while a lower score suggests areas needing improvement. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape, which can change over time.

To improve the COPD Score, several recommendations can be made. First, efforts to increase the number of primary care physicians in the area can reduce the physician-to-patient ratio. Second, practices should be encouraged to adopt evidence-based treatment protocols and invest in specialized equipment for COPD management. Third, promoting telemedicine adoption and expanding access to virtual monitoring tools can improve patient access to care. Finally, integrating mental health services or establishing strong referral pathways to mental health providers is crucial for holistic patient care.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Friedensburg, PA, and to identify areas of need and opportunity, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping tools available through CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for the visualization of healthcare resources, demographic data, and other relevant information, providing a comprehensive understanding of the community and its healthcare needs.