17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 17934 has some form of health insurance. 63.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.52 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 17934 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 47 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17934. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 46 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,909 health care providers accessible to residents in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17934 and Primary Care in Gilberton

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients in Gilberton, Pennsylvania, specifically within ZIP code 17934, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, which we'll term a 'COPD Score,' evaluates several key factors impacting patient access to care, the quality of that care, and the support systems available to manage this chronic respiratory illness.

The first critical element is physician density and the physician-to-patient ratio. Gilberton, a small borough within Schuylkill County, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: a shortage of primary care physicians. Determining the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the 17934 ZIP code is essential. This data, ideally sourced from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar regulatory bodies, provides a baseline. Comparing this number to the total population of Gilberton and the surrounding areas within the ZIP code reveals the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this ratio alone is insufficient. The age distribution of the population, the prevalence of COPD, and the presence of other chronic conditions must also be considered.

Beyond simple numbers, the specific practices within the area warrant scrutiny. Identifying practices specializing in pulmonary care or demonstrating a strong commitment to COPD management is crucial. This involves researching practice websites, reviewing patient testimonials (while acknowledging the inherent biases), and potentially contacting practices directly to inquire about their COPD-specific programs. Do they offer pulmonary function testing (PFT) onsite? Do they have certified respiratory therapists? Are they actively involved in patient education and support groups? Practices that proactively address these aspects of COPD care would score higher on our COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, offers a powerful tool for COPD patients, especially those in rural areas with limited access to specialists. Does any primary care practice in 17934 offer telemedicine consultations? Do they use remote monitoring devices to track patients' vital signs and symptoms? Telemedicine can improve access to care, facilitate early intervention, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, all of which can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The chronic nature of the disease, the physical limitations it imposes, and the fear of exacerbations can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, assessing the availability of mental health services within the area is essential. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) accepting new patients within the 17934 ZIP code or nearby? Do primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services or have referral pathways to mental health professionals? Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these resources would receive a higher COPD Score.

The presence of support groups and patient education programs also contributes to the overall quality of care. Does the area have COPD support groups, either in-person or online? Are there educational resources available to patients, such as workshops, pamphlets, or online materials? These resources empower patients to manage their condition effectively, understand their medications, and cope with the challenges of living with COPD. The presence of these resources would positively influence the COPD Score.

Another element to consider is the availability of specialized pulmonary care. While the focus here is on primary care, the proximity and accessibility of pulmonologists are essential for patients with more complex cases or those requiring specialized treatments. Are there pulmonologists within a reasonable driving distance of Gilberton? Are they accepting new patients? The ease of access to specialized care is a crucial factor in the overall management of COPD.

Finally, the COPD Score should consider the integration of care. Do primary care practices coordinate care with specialists, home health agencies, and other healthcare providers? Do they use electronic health records (EHRs) to share patient information and ensure continuity of care? Effective care coordination is crucial for ensuring that patients receive the comprehensive and coordinated care they need.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of primary care for COPD patients in Gilberton, PA (17934) requires a comprehensive evaluation. The COPD Score considers physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, support groups, and the integration of care. This analysis is not a static assessment; it should be regularly updated to reflect changes in healthcare availability and quality.

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