18457, Rowland, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18457, Rowland, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18457 has some form of health insurance. 73.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.02 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 18457 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18457. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 618 health care providers accessible to residents in 18457, Rowland, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Rowland, PA (ZIP Code 18457)

This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment for physicians within ZIP Code 18457 (Rowland, PA), focusing on factors critical for managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and availability of mental health resources, all vital for effective COPD care. This is not a definitive ranking but rather an informed assessment based on available data and publicly accessible information.

Rowland, Pennsylvania, a rural community, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The COPD Score here reflects the realities of this environment. The score is influenced by the limited number of primary care physicians and specialists, potentially impacting the timely diagnosis and management of COPD patients.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Rowland, the ratio is likely higher than the national average due to the rural nature of the area and the potential for fewer physicians practicing in the region. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, less time per patient during consultations, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. A high ratio negatively impacts the COPD Score.

The scarcity of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is a significant concern. COPD management often requires specialized care, including pulmonary rehabilitation and advanced therapies. Limited access to these specialists necessitates travel to larger cities or reliance on primary care physicians for advanced COPD care, which may be less effective.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices is difficult without a comprehensive review of individual practice data. However, practices demonstrating a commitment to COPD management will likely exhibit specific characteristics. These include:

* **Dedicated COPD Programs:** Practices with specialized COPD programs, including patient education, smoking cessation support, and pulmonary rehabilitation, would receive a higher score.
* **Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities:** Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as spirometry and lung function testing, is essential for accurate COPD diagnosis and monitoring.
* **Coordination of Care:** Practices that effectively coordinate care with specialists, therapists, and other healthcare providers would receive positive recognition.
* **Patient-Centered Approach:** Practices prioritizing patient education, shared decision-making, and personalized care plans would be highly valued.

Without specific practice information, it is difficult to identify standout practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine offers a significant advantage in rural areas, providing remote access to healthcare services. Its adoption is crucial for improving the COPD Score. Telemedicine can facilitate:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Remote consultations with primary care physicians and specialists can reduce the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Devices that monitor lung function, oxygen saturation, and other vital signs can be used remotely, allowing for early detection of exacerbations and proactive intervention.
* **Educational Resources:** Telemedicine platforms can provide access to educational materials and support groups, empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.

The level of telemedicine adoption within Rowland practices significantly impacts the COPD Score. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies to improve patient care would receive a higher score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

COPD significantly impacts mental health. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health resources is therefore essential for comprehensive COPD care.

* **Integration of Mental Health Services:** Practices that integrate mental health services, such as on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, would receive a higher score.
* **Support Groups:** Support groups for COPD patients can provide emotional support, education, and a sense of community.
* **Medication Management:** Access to mental health medication management is critical for patients experiencing mood disorders.

The availability and integration of mental health resources are crucial components of a high COPD Score.

**Primary Care Availability in Rowland:**

Primary care availability is a fundamental factor influencing the COPD Score. Limited access to primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnosis, inadequate management, and increased hospitalizations.

* **Appointment Availability:** The ease of scheduling appointments with primary care physicians is a key indicator.
* **After-Hours Care:** Access to after-hours care, such as urgent care clinics or on-call physicians, is essential for managing acute exacerbations.
* **Insurance Acceptance:** The acceptance of various insurance plans is important for ensuring access to care for all residents.

The overall availability of primary care physicians, considering appointment availability, after-hours care, and insurance acceptance, significantly influences the COPD Score.

**Overall COPD Score for Rowland (18457):**

Given the rural nature of Rowland and the likely limitations in physician availability, the COPD Score is likely moderate to low. The score is likely impacted by:

* **Limited Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** The ratio likely exceeds the national average.
* **Potential for Limited Specialist Access:** Access to pulmonologists and other specialists may require travel.
* **Telemedicine Adoption Variability:** The extent of telemedicine adoption will influence the score.
* **Mental Health Resource Availability:** The availability of mental health resources will impact the score.
* **Primary Care Availability:** The overall availability of primary care physicians will significantly affect the score.

**Conclusion:**

Managing COPD effectively in Rowland requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing the challenges of physician availability, promoting telemedicine adoption, and ensuring access to mental health resources are critical steps. Improving the COPD Score will require a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rowland and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, patients, and community stakeholders seeking to improve COPD care and access to healthcare services.