18419, Factoryville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18419, Factoryville, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.85 percent of the residents in 18419 has some form of health insurance. 42.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.92 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 18419 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 887 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18419. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,048 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,239 health care providers accessible to residents in 18419, Factoryville, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients within the context of primary care resources in Factoryville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18419). This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial factors influencing COPD management.

Factoryville, a small borough nestled in Wyoming County, presents unique challenges and opportunities for healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often translates to limited access to specialized medical services, placing a greater emphasis on the role of primary care physicians (PCPs) in managing chronic conditions like COPD. The initial step in evaluating COPD care involves assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of PCPs actively practicing in the 18419 ZIP code and comparing it to the local population is fundamental. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau would be necessary to calculate this ratio accurately. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signal potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. This involves examining factors such as the experience of the physicians, their board certifications (particularly in internal medicine or family medicine), and their adherence to established COPD treatment guidelines. Reviews from patients, though often subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall patient experience. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for extending healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in Factoryville is a critical factor in evaluating COPD care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, monitor their symptoms, and receive medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring using devices like pulse oximeters, and online educational resources, are better positioned to provide comprehensive COPD care. The availability of secure and user-friendly telemedicine platforms is also a key consideration.

The impact of COPD extends beyond the physical realm, often leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of COPD care. The analysis should identify practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals in the community. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups specializing in chronic respiratory illnesses. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers is essential for providing holistic care.

To ascertain the level of COPD care in Factoryville, a thorough investigation of specific practices is required. This includes identifying the names of PCPs practicing within the 18419 ZIP code, their affiliations with hospitals or healthcare systems, and their areas of specialization. Publicly accessible websites, such as those maintained by insurance companies or healthcare directories, can provide this information. It is also important to investigate the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are specifically designed to improve the quality of life for COPD patients through exercise, education, and support.

The analysis should also consider the availability of diagnostic tools and specialized equipment within the local practices. Access to spirometry, a test that measures lung function, is essential for diagnosing and monitoring COPD. The presence of other diagnostic tools, such as chest X-rays and access to pulmonologists, is also an important factor. Collaboration with specialists is crucial for managing complex COPD cases.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also important. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for better coordination of care, easier access to patient information, and improved communication between physicians and patients. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can provide more efficient and coordinated care.

Furthermore, the analysis should explore the availability of patient education resources. COPD patients need to understand their condition, the medications they are taking, and the lifestyle modifications they can make to manage their symptoms. Practices that provide educational materials, offer group education sessions, or have dedicated staff members to educate patients are better equipped to empower patients to take an active role in their care.

Finally, the analysis should consider the cost of care. The cost of COPD medications, doctor visits, and hospitalizations can be a significant burden for patients. The analysis should explore the availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by pharmaceutical companies or charitable organizations, to help patients afford the care they need.

In conclusion, evaluating COPD care in Factoryville (18419) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. It also necessitates a close examination of diagnostic capabilities, patient education resources, and the cost of care. A comprehensive assessment of these factors will provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in providing COPD care.

For a dynamic, data-driven visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Factoryville, including the location of practices, physician specialties, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. Their platform offers an in-depth geographic analysis of healthcare data, providing valuable insights for patients and healthcare providers alike.