18244, Parryville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18244, Parryville, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.69 percent of the residents in 18244 has some form of health insurance. 48.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.25 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 18244 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 80 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18244. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,216 health care providers accessible to residents in 18244, Parryville, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Parryville, PA (ZIP Code 18244)

The analysis below assesses the quality of primary care and related resources in Parryville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18244), with a specific focus on factors relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management. This includes physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for COPD patients. The assessment is designed to provide a practical overview, not a definitive ranking.

Parryville, a small community nestled in Carbon County, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. Rural settings often experience disparities in access to care, particularly specialized services. The availability of primary care physicians, the cornerstone of COPD management, is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. Based on available data, the physician-to-patient ratio in the area is likely lower than the national average. This suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care, which is essential for managing a chronic condition like COPD.

Analyzing the specific practices within the 18244 ZIP code reveals further insights. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. These include the number of physicians accepting new patients, the availability of specialized COPD care (e.g., pulmonologists or respiratory therapists), and the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that actively engage in patient education, offering resources on medication adherence, lifestyle modifications (smoking cessation, exercise), and exacerbation management, are likely to provide superior COPD care. Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) is a key indicator. EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing physicians to share information seamlessly and track patient progress effectively.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of assessing healthcare quality in Parryville. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, especially in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive medication refills, and participate in virtual monitoring programs. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. The availability of telehealth consultations with specialists, such as pulmonologists, is especially valuable for COPD patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are vitally important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for addressing these issues. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their COPD care plans are better equipped to provide holistic support. The presence of local support groups, such as those offered by the American Lung Association or other community organizations, can provide invaluable emotional support and peer-to-peer education.

Specific practices within the area should be evaluated based on their adherence to established COPD guidelines. This includes the use of spirometry to diagnose and monitor COPD, the prescription of appropriate medications (bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids), and the implementation of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Pulmonary rehabilitation, a comprehensive program involving exercise, education, and support, is a cornerstone of COPD management. Practices that offer or readily refer patients to pulmonary rehabilitation programs demonstrate a commitment to optimizing patient outcomes.

The analysis also considers the integration of ancillary services. Access to respiratory therapists, who can provide specialized education on breathing techniques and medication delivery, is crucial. The availability of convenient access to diagnostic testing, such as chest X-rays and blood gas analysis, is also a factor. Practices that have established strong relationships with local hospitals and diagnostic centers can ensure timely access to these essential services.

The assessment of primary care availability in Parryville must also consider the impact of insurance coverage. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is essential for ensuring access to care for all residents. Practices that participate in a wide range of insurance networks demonstrate a commitment to serving the entire community.

In conclusion, evaluating COPD care in Parryville (18244) requires a multifaceted approach. While the physician-to-patient ratio might pose a challenge, the quality of care ultimately depends on the practices' commitment to patient education, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and adherence to established COPD guidelines. Further, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs and access to ancillary services are critical factors. The analysis must be dynamic, as healthcare practices evolve, and new technologies and treatments emerge.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Parryville, including the location of practices, the availability of services, and the demographics of the patient population, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the area, allowing you to identify healthcare resources and assess their accessibility.