18346, Pocono Summit, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18346, Pocono Summit, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.31 percent of the residents in 18346 has some form of health insurance. 49.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.45 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 18346 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 567 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18346. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 615 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,705 health care providers accessible to residents in 18346, Pocono Summit, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Pocono Summit, PA (ZIP Code 18346)**

Assessing the quality of COPD care within Pocono Summit, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18346) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will examine the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and identify standout practices. This information is critical for residents managing COPD and those seeking the best possible care within their community.

The initial challenge lies in defining a concrete "COPD Score." While a single, quantifiable metric is difficult to establish without comprehensive data access, we can construct a nuanced assessment by evaluating several key factors. These factors include the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita, the availability of pulmonologists, the adoption of telehealth services, and the integration of mental health support. Furthermore, the analysis considers the quality of care provided by individual practices.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Pocono Summit, the ratio of PCPs to the general population, and specifically to the population over 65 (who are at higher risk for COPD), is crucial. A lower ratio (fewer doctors per patient) can indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio for 18346 requires accessing publicly available data from sources such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, combined with information from physician directories and insurance provider networks. This data would allow for a more precise understanding of the accessibility of primary care.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective COPD management. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing respiratory symptoms. They are responsible for initial diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing monitoring. The proximity of primary care practices to residents is critical. A geographically dispersed primary care network ensures that patients can easily access care. The analysis must also consider the acceptance of new patients by these practices. Practices that are closed to new patients significantly limit access to care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telehealth allows for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in Pocono Summit can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas. Practices that have embraced telehealth can provide more frequent monitoring and support, which is essential for effective COPD management. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track oxygen saturation and lung function, further enhances the benefits of telehealth.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in COPD care, but it is critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, can provide comprehensive care. This integrated approach addresses the physical and psychological aspects of the disease, leading to better patient outcomes. Assessing the availability of these resources requires researching the services offered by each practice and their referral networks.

Identifying "standout practices" requires more in-depth research. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the qualifications of physicians, and investigating the practice's approach to COPD management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offer comprehensive treatment plans, and actively monitor patient progress are likely to provide superior care. The availability of support groups, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and smoking cessation programs also indicates a commitment to holistic care. Practices that participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD are often at the forefront of innovative treatment approaches.

The specific names of standout practices and the precise physician-to-patient ratios require access to detailed, up-to-date information. However, the general principles outlined above can be used to assess the quality of COPD care in Pocono Summit.

Further research could involve contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing online patient portals, and examining publicly available data from healthcare organizations. This deeper dive would provide a more precise and actionable assessment of the COPD care landscape in 18346.

The analysis also needs to consider the availability of pulmonologists in the surrounding area. While PCPs are the first line of defense, pulmonologists are specialists in respiratory diseases and are often needed for more complex cases. The proximity of pulmonologists and the ease of referral from primary care practices are essential factors in assessing the quality of COPD care.

Finally, the analysis should consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Factors such as insurance coverage, transportation options, and the cost of medications can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment plans. Practices that are sensitive to these factors and offer assistance to patients in need are likely to provide more equitable care.

In conclusion, the quality of COPD care in Pocono Summit, PA (18346) can be assessed by evaluating several key factors: the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the identification of standout practices. This information is vital for individuals managing COPD and for healthcare providers seeking to improve the quality of care in the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pocono Summit, including physician locations, practice specialties, and access to resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping technology can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in your area.