17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.96 percent of the residents in 17965 has some form of health insurance. 42.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.86 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 17965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 364 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17965. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 401 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,272 health care providers accessible to residents in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Port Carbon, PA (ZIP Code 17965)

Analyzing the COPD landscape within Port Carbon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17965) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and ultimately, a composite "COPD Score" representing the area's preparedness to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This score is not a formal metric, but a qualitative assessment based on available information.

The foundation of COPD management rests on accessible primary care. Port Carbon, a small borough, presents a challenge in this regard. The density of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can severely impact access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management of exacerbations, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. Determining the precise ratio for 17965 necessitates data beyond publicly available sources. However, understanding the broader Schuylkill County context is essential. The county, like many rural areas, often faces physician shortages. This scarcity translates to longer wait times for appointments, making it harder for patients to receive timely care and potentially exacerbating their COPD symptoms.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare, especially in areas with limited physical access to specialists. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Port Carbon to connect with pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for managing COPD, where regular monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans are often necessary. The level of telemedicine integration within primary care practices in 17965 is a key indicator of the area's COPD preparedness. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education, will likely contribute to a higher COPD Score. This would also include the use of remote patient monitoring devices, which allow physicians to track vital signs and symptoms remotely, enabling proactive intervention and reducing the need for hospitalizations.

Mental health considerations are paramount in COPD management. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations it imposes, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and social isolation are common comorbidities in COPD patients. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial factor in determining the COPD Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals, significantly enhances the quality of care for COPD patients. The presence of support groups specifically tailored to individuals with COPD provides a valuable platform for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support.

Identifying standout practices within 17965 is challenging without specific practice-level data. However, certain indicators can suggest a higher level of COPD care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources on disease management, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications, are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and implementing evidence-based practices, demonstrate a commitment to excellence in COPD care. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, is a strong indicator of a practice's dedication to comprehensive COPD management.

The overall "COPD Score" for Port Carbon (17965) is likely to be moderate, reflecting the challenges of a rural area. The potential physician shortage, the need for improved telemedicine adoption, and the importance of readily available mental health resources all influence the score. The presence of practices that prioritize patient education, participate in quality improvement initiatives, and offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs could improve the score. The ability to connect patients with specialists, particularly pulmonologists, is crucial. This can be achieved through telemedicine or through referral networks to specialists in nearby cities.

The analysis of the primary care landscape in Port Carbon, PA, reveals a complex picture. While the area may face challenges, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the presence of dedicated practices can significantly improve the quality of COPD care. The ability to understand the specific needs of the population, address the physician shortage, and invest in resources to support patients with COPD is essential for improving outcomes.

The availability of resources, the physician-to-patient ratio, and the adoption of telemedicine all contribute to the overall quality of care. This is a dynamic picture, and the situation can change over time. The ability to monitor these factors and adjust strategies accordingly is essential for ensuring that patients with COPD receive the best possible care.

The "COPD Score" is not a static measure; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing comprehensive care. The goal is to ensure that patients with COPD have access to the resources they need to manage their condition effectively and live fulfilling lives. The success of this effort depends on the collaboration of healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Port Carbon and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider exploring interactive mapping tools. These tools can provide a visual representation of the healthcare infrastructure, enabling you to assess the accessibility of care and identify areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Port Carbon, PA, and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care practices, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a valuable tool for assessing healthcare accessibility and identifying potential areas for improvement.