17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.88 percent of the residents in 17936 has some form of health insurance. 32.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.10 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 17936 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 369 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17936. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 189 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,774 health care providers accessible to residents in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Gordon, PA (ZIP Code 17936)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services within Gordon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17936), specifically focusing on factors relevant to patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The goal is to provide a COPD Score assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in managing this chronic respiratory illness.

Gordon, a small community in Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The success of COPD management hinges on consistent access to quality primary care, which acts as the cornerstone for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring. This analysis will delve into the realities of primary care provision within the specified area.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

One of the primary determinants of access to care is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment durations, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or other reliable sources. However, based on general trends in rural areas, it's likely that Gordon faces a physician shortage compared to more urban centers. This scarcity can significantly impact the ability of COPD patients to receive timely and consistent care. Patients might need to travel outside of Gordon to see a primary care physician, adding to the burden of managing their condition.

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches:**

Identifying standout primary care practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the range of services offered, patient reviews, and the practice's commitment to COPD management. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to COPD care often excel. This includes offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing, providing patient education on disease management, and coordinating care with pulmonologists and other specialists.

A practice that prioritizes patient education and offers structured COPD management programs would likely receive a higher score. This includes educating patients about medication adherence, smoking cessation strategies, and the importance of regular exercise and pulmonary rehabilitation. The availability of these services can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to care is limited. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Gordon is a critical factor in the COPD Score assessment. Telemedicine allows physicians to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients' conditions remotely, and provide timely interventions.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer more frequent check-ins, especially for patients with unstable COPD. This can help prevent exacerbations and reduce hospitalizations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in COPD management. A practice's investment in telehealth infrastructure and its willingness to train staff and patients in its use will be crucial.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

COPD often co-exists with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their COPD and adhere to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is therefore essential.

Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and provide access to counseling or psychiatric services will score higher. Integration of mental health services into COPD care can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. This may involve having a behavioral health specialist on staff or establishing strong referral relationships with local mental health providers. The ability to address the psychological impact of COPD is a key component of comprehensive care.

**Specific Considerations for Gordon:**

The specific demographics and socioeconomic factors of Gordon must also be considered. The prevalence of smoking, the age distribution of the population, and the availability of social support systems can all influence the COPD Score. Practices that are aware of these factors and tailor their services accordingly will be better equipped to serve the needs of their patients.

The presence of community resources, such as support groups, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and smoking cessation clinics, also plays a role. Primary care practices that collaborate with these resources can provide more comprehensive care. The availability of transportation for patients who have difficulty getting to appointments is another important consideration.

**Overall COPD Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the COPD Score for primary care in Gordon, PA (ZIP code 17936) is likely to be moderate. The potential limitations of a rural area, like a lower physician-to-patient ratio, may be offset by factors such as a strong community network and a commitment to patient education. The actual score depends on the specific practices and their approaches to COPD management.

**Conclusion:**

Managing COPD effectively requires a multi-faceted approach that includes access to quality primary care, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support. The COPD Score analysis provides a framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Gordon, Pennsylvania. The data can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better resources for COPD patients.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gordon and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis and facilitating informed decision-making.