18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18231 has some form of health insurance. 41.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.84 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 18231 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 119 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18231. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 22 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,617 health care providers accessible to residents in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of COPD care availability and quality within ZIP code 18231, specifically focusing on Kelayres, Pennsylvania, presents a complex picture. While the region offers some primary care resources, the specific needs of COPD patients, including access to specialized pulmonologists, robust pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and comprehensive mental health support, require careful scrutiny. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the current landscape, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately culminating in a call to action for utilizing advanced mapping tools to further illuminate the situation.

Physician-to-patient ratios in Kelayres and the surrounding areas of ZIP code 18231 are a critical factor in assessing COPD care accessibility. The rural nature of this region often presents challenges in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for COPD patients. The availability of pulmonologists, who are specialists in lung diseases like COPD, is even more crucial. Their expertise is essential for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment plans, and ongoing management of the disease. Data on the precise ratio of primary care physicians and pulmonologists per 1,000 residents within 18231 is essential to determine the true accessibility of care. This data would ideally be supplemented by information on the age and health status of the population, as the prevalence of COPD typically increases with age.

Identifying standout practices within the region is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices in COPD management. A standout practice would likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, including regular spirometry testing to assess lung function, personalized treatment plans, and patient education programs. They may also have a dedicated team of respiratory therapists and nurses trained in COPD care. Furthermore, these practices might actively participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD, demonstrating a commitment to advancing the field. Examining the patient satisfaction scores for these practices, along with their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, would provide valuable insights into their quality of care. It is important to note that the definition of a "standout practice" is not absolute and can vary depending on the criteria used for evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption, particularly in a rural area like Kelayres, can significantly improve access to care for COPD patients. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The availability of virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication management, and even pulmonary rehabilitation sessions can be particularly beneficial. The level of telemedicine adoption in 18231, including the types of services offered and the technologies used, requires investigation. It is important to assess the digital literacy of the patient population and ensure that adequate support is available to help patients navigate telemedicine platforms. The integration of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track oxygen saturation levels or peak flow rates, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine in COPD management.

Mental health resources are a critical, yet often overlooked, component of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, who specialize in working with individuals with chronic illnesses is crucial. These professionals can provide therapy, counseling, and medication management to address the psychological challenges associated with COPD. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices and pulmonary clinics is ideal. Furthermore, the availability of support groups and educational programs for COPD patients and their families can provide valuable emotional support and coping strategies. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these mental health resources within 18231 is essential for a comprehensive understanding of COPD care.

The analysis of COPD care in Kelayres, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas of ZIP code 18231 reveals a complex interplay of factors that influence patient outcomes. While the region may have some primary care resources, the specific needs of COPD patients, including access to specialized pulmonologists, robust pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and comprehensive mental health support, require careful consideration. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical elements to evaluate.

To gain a more comprehensive and visual understanding of the COPD care landscape in ZIP code 18231, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to pinpoint the locations of healthcare providers, assess population demographics, and analyze various health indicators. This can provide a clearer picture of the geographic distribution of resources and identify potential areas of need. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, you can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to COPD care in Kelayres and the surrounding region.