18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.09 percent of the residents in 18221 has some form of health insurance. 47.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.05 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 18221 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18221. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,603 health care providers accessible to residents in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Drifton, PA (ZIP Code 18221)

Analyzing the quality of COPD care and primary care availability within Drifton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18221) requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll delve into the physician landscape, focusing on COPD-specific expertise, primary care access, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. This analysis will culminate in a proposed 'COPD Score' framework, offering a relative assessment of the healthcare environment for individuals managing this chronic respiratory disease.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on the availability of skilled physicians. In Drifton, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to care, facilitating proactive management and timely interventions. Identifying the specific number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code is crucial. Furthermore, it is essential to determine the number of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists serving the community, as these specialists are vital for advanced COPD care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the expertise of these physicians is paramount. Are there board-certified pulmonologists practicing within the area? Board certification signifies a commitment to specialized training and adherence to the highest standards of care. The presence of pulmonologists actively engaged in COPD research or involved in clinical trials would further enhance the quality of care available, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and management strategies.

One of the most important factors is the availability of primary care physicians, as they are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing respiratory symptoms. They are responsible for initial assessments, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of the disease. The proximity of these PCPs to the patient population is a key consideration. Are there readily accessible primary care practices located within Drifton itself, or do residents need to travel significant distances to receive care?

Standout practices within the area deserve recognition. These practices may be identified by their focus on COPD management, their patient-centered approach, or their utilization of innovative technologies. The presence of dedicated COPD clinics, offering comprehensive services like pulmonary rehabilitation, respiratory therapy, and patient education programs, would significantly improve the overall COPD score. Reviews from patients, accessible through online platforms, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element of the analysis. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, can significantly improve COPD management, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The availability of telemedicine services within the practices in Drifton, including virtual appointments with PCPs and pulmonologists, remote monitoring of vital signs, and access to online patient portals for medication refills and communication, would positively influence the COPD score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but their importance cannot be overstated. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups, is crucial for addressing these challenges. Are there mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed therapists, practicing within the area? Are these professionals experienced in treating patients with chronic respiratory conditions? The integration of mental health services into the overall COPD care plan would significantly enhance the patient's well-being and improve their ability to manage their condition effectively.

The 'COPD Score' framework for Drifton, PA (18221) should consider these factors. A higher score would reflect a robust healthcare environment characterized by a high physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, readily accessible primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A lower score would indicate areas for improvement, such as a shortage of specialists, limited access to primary care, and a lack of integrated support services.

To determine the final COPD score, a weighted system could be implemented. The physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialists could be assigned the highest weight, as they directly impact access to care. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources could be assigned moderate weights, reflecting their importance in improving patient outcomes and overall well-being. Patient reviews and the presence of dedicated COPD clinics could also be factored into the score, providing a more comprehensive assessment of the quality of care.

The final COPD score would be presented as a numerical value, allowing for easy comparison with other ZIP codes and providing a benchmark for healthcare providers to assess their performance and identify areas for improvement. This score would also serve as a valuable resource for patients, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare and seek the best possible care for their COPD.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Drifton, PA (18221), including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and pharmacies, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community and make informed decisions about your healthcare.