18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.14 percent of the residents in 18056 has some form of health insurance. 25.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.37 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 18056 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 294 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 40 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18056. An estimate of 94 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 195 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 43,900 health care providers accessible to residents in 18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Hereford, PA (ZIP Code 18056)

Analyzing the quality of COPD care within ZIP code 18056, encompassing the community of Hereford, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), the specific resources dedicated to COPD management, and the overall healthcare landscape. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' assessment, acknowledging that a definitive numerical score is challenging to generate without access to proprietary data. Instead, we will provide a detailed qualitative evaluation.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Hereford, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios, while difficult to pinpoint with absolute precision without detailed local data, are a key indicator. A low ratio (more patients per physician) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially more proactive management. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights into county-level physician availability. However, this data may not reflect the specific situation within ZIP code 18056. Further investigation would necessitate contacting local healthcare providers and reviewing their patient intake capacity.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the expertise of the physicians in diagnosing and managing COPD, their commitment to patient education, and their adherence to established clinical guidelines. We can assess this through a combination of factors. Firstly, the board certifications of the physicians in pulmonology or internal medicine are crucial. Secondly, the practices' adoption of evidence-based practices, such as spirometry testing for diagnosis and regular pulmonary function tests (PFTs) for monitoring, is vital. Thirdly, patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the doctor-patient relationship and the overall quality of care. Online review platforms, while potentially biased, can offer a snapshot of patient satisfaction.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare ecosystem. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD care might offer specialized services, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs, smoking cessation counseling, and access to respiratory therapists. They might also participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD. Furthermore, the integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate care coordination and remote monitoring devices, can enhance the quality of care. Practices that actively engage in these initiatives are likely to provide superior COPD management.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of COPD care in Hereford. Telemedicine, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services can reduce the frequency of in-person visits, allowing patients to manage their condition more effectively from the comfort of their homes. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management. This includes providing clear instructions and support for using the technology and ensuring patient privacy and data security.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are crucial. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This may involve collaborating with mental health professionals, offering on-site counseling, or providing referrals to specialized services. The availability of these resources significantly improves the overall quality of life for COPD patients.

Evaluating the specific resources available within Hereford requires a thorough investigation. This includes identifying the presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The availability of these specialists is critical for providing comprehensive COPD care. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs, in particular, are proven to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life. The presence of these programs within or near Hereford would be a significant positive factor in the COPD Score assessment. Access to pharmacies that specialize in respiratory medications and offer patient support services is also important.

Furthermore, the local healthcare infrastructure plays a role. The presence of a well-equipped hospital or clinic with respiratory care capabilities is essential for managing acute exacerbations of COPD. Access to emergency services and rapid transportation to a hospital is also crucial. The coordination between primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services is vital for ensuring seamless and effective care.

In conclusion, the 'COPD Score' for doctors in ZIP code 18056, and primary care availability in Hereford, is complex and nuanced. While a definitive numerical score is impossible without detailed local data, the analysis reveals several key areas for assessment. The physician-to-patient ratio, the expertise of the physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized COPD services are all critical factors. A comprehensive assessment would require a detailed investigation of local healthcare providers, patient reviews, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. The level of care, as a whole, would be a factor in the final analysis.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Hereford, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable overview of the healthcare infrastructure and help you visualize the availability of care in your area.