18349, Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18349, Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18349 has some form of health insurance. 19.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 18349 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 86 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18349. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 31 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,768 health care providers accessible to residents in 18349, Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Pocono Manor, PA (ZIP Code 18349)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of primary care physician availability and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management within Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18349). It considers key factors impacting patient access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical for effectively addressing the multifaceted challenges of COPD.

The evaluation begins with an assessment of physician density. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio in a specific ZIP code requires accessing and analyzing data from various sources, including the US Census Bureau for population figures and the Pennsylvania Department of State for physician licensing information. While precise figures are difficult to ascertain without proprietary data, it is reasonable to infer that Pocono Manor, being a relatively rural area, likely experiences a lower physician density compared to more urban centers. This potentially translates to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for patients seeking primary care. This scarcity of physicians is a critical factor influencing the overall COPD score.

Next, the analysis delves into the characteristics of primary care practices within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The presence of well-established practices with a focus on respiratory health is a positive indicator. Practices that have specialized equipment for pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and access to respiratory therapists are particularly valuable. The availability of these resources within the immediate vicinity of Pocono Manor significantly improves the accessibility of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for COPD patients. The reputation of individual practices is also considered. Practices known for their patient-centered care, proactive management of chronic conditions, and commitment to patient education contribute positively to the COPD score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers a valuable avenue for COPD patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or residing in geographically isolated areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor vital signs, and provide medication management support through telemedicine can dramatically improve patient outcomes. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, offering virtual check-ups, and providing remote monitoring tools are awarded higher scores. Conversely, practices that have not embraced telemedicine or have limited virtual care options are penalized.

The availability of mental health resources is also integrated into the COPD score assessment. COPD is a chronic illness that often co-exists with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, access to mental health services is paramount for holistic patient care. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within primary care practices or readily accessible in the community, significantly enhances the COPD score. Practices that have integrated mental health services or have strong referral networks to mental health providers are viewed favorably.

The analysis further considers the overall healthcare infrastructure in the region. The proximity to hospitals with specialized pulmonary departments, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the presence of home healthcare services all contribute to the comprehensive care available to COPD patients. The existence of these resources, which complement the primary care services within Pocono Manor, is a positive indicator. The COPD score is negatively impacted by the absence of these support systems, as it can create gaps in the continuum of care.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a combination of research and data analysis. This involves reviewing patient reviews, assessing practice websites, and potentially conducting interviews with local healthcare professionals. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in COPD management, patient education, and care coordination are recognized. These practices often have dedicated staff, implement evidence-based treatment guidelines, and actively participate in quality improvement initiatives. Their presence elevates the overall standard of care within the community.

The assessment also considers the availability of educational resources for patients. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, and self-management programs empower patients to actively participate in their care. This includes providing information about medication adherence, breathing techniques, and lifestyle modifications. The presence of these educational resources is a positive factor, as it promotes patient self-efficacy and improves long-term outcomes.

The analysis also considers the degree of coordination among healthcare providers. Effective COPD management often requires collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists. Practices that have established referral pathways, utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate information sharing, and actively coordinate care contribute to improved patient outcomes. The COPD score is negatively impacted by a lack of coordination, which can lead to fragmented care and suboptimal outcomes.

Finally, the analysis synthesizes all the factors described above to generate a COPD score for the area. This score is not a single number but a composite assessment reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care within Pocono Manor. The score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, inform healthcare planning, and guide patients in their search for quality care. The score is continuously updated as new data becomes available and as the healthcare landscape evolves.

The primary care availability and resource landscape in Pocono Manor, Pennsylvania, presents both opportunities and challenges for COPD patients. While the rural nature of the area may present some limitations, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers, telemedicine adoption, and available support services contributes to a positive outlook. The COPD score is a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of care for individuals living with this chronic respiratory illness.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Pocono Manor and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and practice characteristics, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying resources that can support your COPD management journey.