17980, Tower City, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 17980, Tower City, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.25 percent of the residents in 17980 has some form of health insurance. 40.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.20 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 17980 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 632 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17980. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 668 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 306 health care providers accessible to residents in 17980, Tower City, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of COPD care within ZIP code 17980, specifically focusing on Tower City, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), assessing their capacity to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and examining the resources available to patients in the community. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, investigate telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective COPD management.

Tower City, a small borough in Schuylkill County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural setting often translates to lower physician density and potential difficulties in accessing specialized care. Understanding the local landscape is vital for assessing COPD care effectiveness. We will examine the current state of primary care, the first line of defense for COPD patients.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental metric. The ideal ratio, of course, is a subjective measure, but a lower ratio generally indicates better access to care. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and other sources will be necessary to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 17980 ZIP code. This data will be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of PCPs. A shortage of physicians can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making timely COPD diagnosis and management more difficult.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by local PCPs is paramount. This involves assessing their experience and expertise in COPD management. Do they routinely screen for COPD in high-risk patients, such as smokers? Do they adhere to established guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring? Information about physician training, certifications, and affiliations with hospitals and specialists is crucial. Patient reviews and feedback, if available, can also offer valuable insights into the patient experience.

Identifying standout practices within Tower City is important. These practices often serve as models for best practices in COPD care. We would look for practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offering resources to help patients understand their condition and manage their symptoms. They might also employ respiratory therapists or nurses specializing in pulmonary care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD are also noteworthy, as they demonstrate a commitment to advancing the field.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. We will assess the extent to which local PCPs utilize telemedicine for COPD management. Do they offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or medication management? Do they use remote monitoring devices to track patients’ lung function and symptoms? The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a factor.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an important component of comprehensive COPD care. We will investigate the presence of mental health professionals in the area, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Do PCPs have referral pathways to mental health services? Are there support groups or other community resources available to patients with COPD?

The analysis will also consider the availability of other supportive services, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs can help patients improve their lung function, exercise tolerance, and overall quality of life. We will assess whether any pulmonary rehabilitation programs are available within a reasonable distance of Tower City, and if so, the accessibility of those programs.

Furthermore, we will consider the availability of pharmacy services. Easy access to medications, including inhalers and other respiratory drugs, is essential for COPD management. The presence of local pharmacies and their ability to provide medication counseling and support are important factors.

In conclusion, assessing COPD care in Tower City involves a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by local PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of supportive services all play a crucial role. The findings of this analysis will provide a valuable snapshot of the current state of COPD care in the area, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Tower City and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize geographic data, allowing you to easily identify and analyze key features of the local healthcare ecosystem. Visit CartoChrome to explore the maps and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to COPD patients in your community.