18466, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18466, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.54 percent of the residents in 18466 has some form of health insurance. 41.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.42 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 18466 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,096 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18466. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,222 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 853 health care providers accessible to residents in 18466, Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Tobyhanna, PA (ZIP Code 18466)

Analyzing the availability and quality of COPD care within Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18466) requires a multi-faceted approach. A "COPD Score" isn't a standardized metric, but rather an assessment of factors crucial for effective COPD management. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of Tobyhanna's specific healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental starting point. Accurate data on the precise number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists actively practicing within the 18466 ZIP code is critical. Publicly available resources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health's physician directory and the American Medical Association's database, would be the initial sources. However, these often lack real-time accuracy. A key consideration is the patient population. Tobyhanna's demographic profile, including age distribution and prevalence of smoking history (a major COPD risk factor), directly impacts the demand for respiratory care services. A high physician-to-patient ratio, while seemingly positive, could be misleading if a significant portion of the population lacks adequate insurance or faces transportation barriers. Conversely, a low ratio demands a closer examination of the existing practices' capacity and efficiency.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual clinic characteristics. This involves examining factors beyond simple physician numbers. The availability of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT) is crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of COPD progression. Practices equipped with spirometry, diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) testing, and other advanced diagnostic tools demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive respiratory care. Furthermore, the presence of certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) within a practice is a strong indicator of quality. RRTs play a vital role in patient education, medication management, and the delivery of respiratory therapies. Assessing the accessibility of these services, including appointment wait times and office hours, also contributes to the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Tobyhanna. The ability for patients to consult with their physicians remotely can improve access to care, reduce the need for travel, and enhance medication adherence. Evaluating the level of telemedicine integration within local practices is essential. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring capabilities (e.g., for oxygen saturation and peak flow), and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care, potentially improving outcomes for COPD patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The "COPD Score" must incorporate an assessment of the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare ecosystem. This includes evaluating the presence of on-site mental health professionals within primary care practices or pulmonology clinics, as well as the ease of referral to external mental health providers. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also a valuable indicator. Practices that actively integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The "COPD Score" for Tobyhanna's healthcare landscape is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving needs of the patient population and the ongoing efforts of local healthcare providers. The score's usefulness hinges on the accuracy and currency of the data used. The analysis should be updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, practice capabilities, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The overall quality of care is also impacted by the availability of affordable medications and access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which should also be considered.

Ultimately, the goal of this "COPD Score" analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available to individuals with COPD in Tobyhanna. This information can be used by patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about care and to identify areas for improvement within the local healthcare system. The analysis can also inform policy decisions aimed at improving access to care and optimizing COPD management within the community.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tobyhanna, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize the data, identify gaps in care, and make more informed decisions about your health and well-being.