18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.10 percent of the residents in 18464 has some form of health insurance. 36.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.81 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 18464 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 334 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18464. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 340 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 991 health care providers accessible to residents in 18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Tafton, PA (ZIP Code 18464)

Analyzing the landscape of COPD care within ZIP code 18464, encompassing Tafton, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to manage COPD patients, the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of the specific needs of a community potentially facing challenges related to access and socioeconomic factors. A COPD score, in this context, is not a single, easily quantifiable number but rather a composite assessment reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in accessible primary care. In Tafton, evaluating the PCP availability is critical. We need to ascertain the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly hinder access to timely appointments, routine checkups, and ongoing care crucial for COPD patients. The analysis should delve into the average wait times for appointments, both for established and new patients, as this directly impacts the ability to manage exacerbations and maintain lung health. Furthermore, the types of insurance accepted by the PCPs in the area, including Medicare and Medicaid, are important, as these are often utilized by the demographic most susceptible to COPD.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by the PCPs is paramount. This involves assessing their experience in managing COPD, their adherence to established treatment guidelines, and their ability to provide comprehensive care, including pulmonary function testing (spirometry) and medication management. Reviewing patient feedback, through online reviews and surveys, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care. A high COPD score would indicate readily available, experienced PCPs who consistently provide high-quality care.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to enhance COPD care in a potentially rural area like Tafton. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and even remote monitoring of their lung function. The analysis should investigate the extent to which PCPs in the area utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and the availability of technical support for patients unfamiliar with these technologies. A high COPD score would reflect widespread telemedicine adoption, particularly for routine follow-ups and medication management.

Mental health considerations are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of COPD care. Living with COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, significantly impacting a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health resources within the community, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. It is important to determine whether PCPs routinely screen for mental health issues and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. A high COPD score would indicate integrated mental health services, including routine screening and easy access to mental health support.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 18464 is crucial. This involves recognizing PCPs or practices that excel in providing comprehensive COPD care. This could include practices that boast a low physician-to-patient ratio, offer extended hours, have a dedicated COPD nurse or respiratory therapist on staff, actively embrace telemedicine, or have strong partnerships with local pulmonologists and respiratory specialists. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, promoting best practices and improving the overall quality of care.

The analysis must also consider the potential impact of socioeconomic factors on COPD care. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can all create barriers to accessing and adhering to treatment plans. The analysis should assess the availability of resources to address these challenges, such as patient assistance programs for medications, transportation assistance for appointments, and educational materials tailored to the needs of the community. A high COPD score would reflect a proactive approach to addressing socioeconomic barriers to care.

In conclusion, evaluating the COPD score for Tafton, PA (ZIP code 18464) requires a comprehensive assessment of PCP availability, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the consideration of socioeconomic factors. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, ultimately informing strategies to improve the quality and accessibility of COPD care for the residents of Tafton. This is not merely a ranking exercise, but a call to action.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Tafton, PA, including the location of primary care physicians, the availability of resources, and potential areas for improvement, explore the power of data visualization. **Visit CartoChrome maps to gain deeper insights and visualize the complex factors impacting COPD care in your community.**