17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17943 has some form of health insurance. 14.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.71 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 17943 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 17943. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,794 health care providers accessible to residents in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Resources in Lavelle, PA (ZIP Code 17943)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients in Lavelle, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17943), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, creating a hypothetical "COPD Score" assessment, considers factors crucial to effective COPD management: the density and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), accessibility of specialists, utilization of telemedicine, integration of mental health services, and overall resources available to patients. The goal is to provide a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area, ultimately helping patients navigate their healthcare journey.

The foundation of good COPD care rests upon a strong primary care network. In Lavelle, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise data on the exact number of PCPs practicing directly within the ZIP code is difficult to obtain without proprietary databases, we can infer based on regional averages and the relatively rural nature of the area. Lavelle is part of a larger geographic area, and patients may travel to nearby towns for care. A preliminary assessment suggests that the PCP density might be lower than the national average, which could pose a challenge for timely access to appointments and ongoing care. This factor alone would negatively impact the hypothetical COPD Score.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the experience and expertise of the physicians, their familiarity with COPD management guidelines, and their ability to effectively communicate with patients. Assessing this requires examining patient reviews, physician credentials, and the practices' adherence to evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices that are recognized for their commitment to preventative care, including regular lung function testing and smoking cessation programs, would score higher. Practices with a focus on patient education and self-management support would also be viewed favorably.

Specialist availability is another crucial element. Access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists is essential for advanced COPD care. The proximity to specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of specialized diagnostic tools (like pulmonary function testing) significantly influence the overall COPD Score. If patients need to travel long distances to see a pulmonologist, or if there are significant delays in accessing these services, the score will be negatively affected.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to receive consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring services from the comfort of their homes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring, would receive a higher score. This is particularly relevant for COPD patients who may experience difficulty traveling to appointments, especially during exacerbations.

The integration of mental health resources is another vital component of comprehensive COPD care. COPD can have a significant impact on mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that offer or have readily available access to mental health services, such as therapists and counselors, receive higher scores. This can include in-house mental health professionals, referrals to local providers, or partnerships with mental health organizations. Addressing the psychological aspects of COPD is essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Standout practices in the area, if any, would be those that demonstrate a holistic approach to COPD management. This includes a strong primary care foundation, easy access to specialists, the use of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. These practices would likely be recognized for their patient-centered approach, their commitment to evidence-based care, and their efforts to improve patient outcomes. They might also be involved in community outreach programs or patient support groups.

Another crucial factor is the availability of resources for COPD patients. This includes access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, smoking cessation programs, and patient education materials. Practices that actively promote these resources and connect patients with support services would receive higher scores. This also involves access to financial assistance programs, if available, to help patients afford medications and other necessary care.

In conclusion, the hypothetical COPD Score for the Lavelle, PA area (ZIP code 17943) would likely be moderate. While the area likely has access to some primary care, the potential for lower physician-to-patient ratios, limited specialist availability, and the need for further telemedicine adoption could negatively impact the score. The integration of mental health services and the availability of comprehensive patient resources are areas that warrant further investigation. The overall score would depend on a detailed analysis of all the factors discussed.

For a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lavelle, PA, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to various resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. This powerful tool can provide a visual representation of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.