18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.01 percent of the residents in 18248 has some form of health insurance. 31.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.89 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 18248 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 165 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18248. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 96 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,790 health care providers accessible to residents in 18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18248 and Primary Care in Sheppton

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients within ZIP Code 18248, encompassing the Sheppton area, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider physician density, practice characteristics, the integration of technology, and the availability of crucial support services like mental health care, all of which significantly impact the quality of care for COPD sufferers. This analysis, while striving for accuracy, is inherently limited by the publicly available data and should be considered a starting point for further, more in-depth investigation.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio indicates potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. In Sheppton, a rural area, the ratio likely presents challenges. The population density is low, and the concentration of healthcare providers, particularly primary care physicians, may be sparse. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times, increased travel distances for patients, and a potential strain on existing resources. Accurate data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires access to proprietary databases and constant updates, which are beyond the scope of this analysis. However, the assumption is that the ratio is unfavorable compared to more urbanized areas.

Several factors influence the quality of COPD care. These include the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of diagnostic tools like spirometry, and the presence of dedicated respiratory therapists. Standout practices, if any, would demonstrate a commitment to COPD management through specialized programs, patient education initiatives, and a multidisciplinary approach. This might involve collaborations with pulmonologists, physical therapists, and mental health professionals. Identifying these "standout" practices requires detailed research, including patient reviews, practice websites, and interviews with local healthcare professionals. Without this level of investigation, it is difficult to name specific practices as exemplary.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving the frequency of follow-up appointments. For COPD patients, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for monitoring symptoms, adjusting medications, and providing education on disease management. The extent of telemedicine adoption within the Sheppton area is a key indicator of the accessibility of care. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to provide better support for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. Information on telemedicine adoption rates requires direct inquiry with the area's medical practices.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked in COPD care, yet they are essential. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, including therapists and psychiatrists, is vital for addressing these issues. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care within the Sheppton area is a critical factor in the overall quality of COPD care. The integration of mental health services into the primary care setting is ideal, but this is not always the case, particularly in rural areas. Determining the availability of these services necessitates researching local healthcare networks and community resources.

The overall COPD score for doctors in ZIP Code 18248 and primary care availability in Sheppton would be influenced by these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for COPD patients, with a good physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would reflect challenges in accessing care, limited resources, and potential barriers to effective COPD management. The actual score, as determined by a comprehensive analysis, would fall somewhere along this spectrum.

The limitations of this analysis are significant. Publicly available data often lacks the granularity needed for a precise assessment. Furthermore, the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new practices opening, existing practices changing, and telemedicine technologies advancing. A truly accurate assessment requires ongoing monitoring and data collection.

The quality of COPD care is not just about the number of doctors or the presence of technology; it's about a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of the patient. This includes patient education, self-management support, and a strong emphasis on preventive care. The ideal scenario involves a collaborative effort between primary care physicians, specialists, therapists, and the patients themselves.

The Sheppton area, like many rural communities, likely faces challenges in providing comprehensive COPD care. The limited availability of primary care physicians, the potential lack of specialized resources, and the geographic isolation of patients can create significant barriers to accessing timely and effective care. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers.

Further investigation should focus on identifying specific practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD care, assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. This information is essential for developing strategies to improve the quality of care for COPD patients in the Sheppton area.

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