18301, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18301, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.06 percent of the residents in 18301 has some form of health insurance. 35.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.51 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 18301 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,778 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18301. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,401 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,370 health care providers accessible to residents in 18301, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: East Stroudsburg, PA (ZIP Code 18301)

Analyzing the availability of quality COPD care in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18301) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial elements in managing this chronic respiratory disease. The aim is to provide a COPD Score assessment, evaluating the current landscape for patients in this specific geographic area.

East Stroudsburg, like many areas, faces challenges in healthcare access. A fundamental factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population in the Pocono region, including East Stroudsburg, is a significant indicator. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses of COPD. This scarcity puts additional pressure on existing resources.

The quality of primary care practices is another vital component. Several practices within or serving the 18301 ZIP code demonstrate notable characteristics. Some practices, particularly those affiliated with larger healthcare systems, may have access to specialized pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and dedicated COPD management programs. These programs often involve patient education, medication management, and regular monitoring of lung function. Practices offering comprehensive care, including pulmonary rehabilitation, are highly valued for their impact on patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool in modern healthcare, and its adoption within East Stroudsburg practices is a key factor in this analysis. Telemedicine facilitates remote consultations, medication refills, and chronic disease management. For COPD patients, this can mean more frequent check-ins with their physicians, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially during exacerbations or periods of poor weather. Practices actively using telehealth technologies, including secure video conferencing and remote monitoring devices, receive a higher score. The availability of telehealth services can also improve access for patients with mobility limitations or those living in more rural areas.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical aspect of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or through referrals to mental health professionals, are more likely to provide holistic support. This includes access to counseling, support groups, and medication management for mental health conditions. The integration of mental health services contributes significantly to a higher COPD Score.

Assessing the availability of COPD-specific resources also contributes to the overall score. This includes the presence of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are essential for improving lung function and quality of life. These programs typically involve exercise training, breathing techniques, and education about COPD management. Additionally, access to respiratory therapists, who can provide education and support for medication use and breathing techniques, is a positive factor. The availability of these resources reflects the commitment of the healthcare system to providing specialized care for COPD patients.

The level of patient education and support offered by practices is another important consideration. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing education about COPD, medications, and lifestyle modifications, tend to have better patient outcomes. This includes offering educational materials, support groups, and access to resources such as smoking cessation programs. Patient empowerment is a key element in effective COPD management.

The overall COPD Score for doctors in ZIP code 18301, therefore, is a composite assessment. It reflects the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of COPD-specific resources. While specific scores cannot be provided without a detailed, data-driven analysis, the factors discussed above are the key determinants.

East Stroudsburg, like many communities, is likely to face challenges in providing comprehensive COPD care. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. This involves increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and ensuring the availability of COPD-specific resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and patients is essential to improve the quality of care.

The assessment of primary care availability in East Stroudsburg also involves considering factors beyond the immediate ZIP code. Patients may seek care outside of the 18301 area. The proximity of hospitals, specialty clinics, and other healthcare facilities in neighboring towns and counties can influence the overall access to care. The availability of transportation, both public and private, also plays a role in determining access to care.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for East Stroudsburg is a dynamic measure that requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. It reflects the current state of healthcare resources and the ongoing efforts to improve the quality of care for COPD patients. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system is essential for developing effective strategies to address the challenges of COPD management.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care physicians, specialty clinics, and other facilities, and to visualize the factors discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and gain insights into the healthcare landscape of East Stroudsburg.