18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.05 percent of the residents in 18512 has some form of health insurance. 37.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.82 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 18512 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,636 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18512. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,358 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,014 health care providers accessible to residents in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18512)

This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 18512 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management. This includes evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for COPD patients. The analysis aims to highlight strengths, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately contribute to better health outcomes for individuals in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

The foundation of effective COPD care lies in readily accessible primary care. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio in 18512 is paramount. A high ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, compromised care. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratio data is dynamic and requires constant updates, publicly available resources from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can offer valuable insights. These sources can reveal if the area is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA), a key indicator of PCP scarcity.

Furthermore, the analysis delves into the specific practices within the 18512 ZIP code. The presence of standout practices, those demonstrating a commitment to COPD management, is critical. These practices often exhibit specific characteristics: they employ certified respiratory therapists, offer pulmonary function testing (PFT) on-site, have established COPD education programs, and actively participate in disease management initiatives. Identifying these practices involves reviewing online patient reviews, consulting with local healthcare organizations, and scrutinizing practice websites for evidence of COPD-specific services.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management via telehealth can significantly improve COPD patient outcomes, particularly for those with mobility limitations or residing in geographically remote areas. The analysis assesses the degree to which PCPs in 18512 have embraced telemedicine. This involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointment options, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into their practice workflows. Practices actively utilizing telehealth technologies are likely to score higher in this analysis.

Beyond physical health, the mental well-being of COPD patients is paramount. COPD often co-exists with anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. The analysis evaluates the availability of mental health services within and around the 18512 ZIP code. This includes assessing whether PCPs have integrated mental health screening into their practice, whether they offer on-site counseling services, and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health specialists and support groups.

The availability of specialized COPD education programs also influences the COPD Score. Patient education is a cornerstone of effective COPD management. Practices that provide comprehensive education on topics such as medication adherence, inhaler technique, smoking cessation, and pulmonary rehabilitation are likely to contribute to improved patient outcomes. The analysis assesses the presence and quality of COPD education programs offered by PCPs in 18512.

The analysis considers the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a structured program designed to improve the physical and emotional well-being of people with COPD. It typically involves exercise training, education, and support. The analysis evaluates the proximity and accessibility of pulmonary rehabilitation programs for patients within the 18512 ZIP code.

The analysis also assesses the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and their impact on COPD management. EHRs facilitate efficient data sharing, improve care coordination, and enable the tracking of patient outcomes. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, particularly those with features designed to support COPD management (e.g., automated reminders for medication refills, alerts for exacerbation risks), are likely to score higher.

Finally, the analysis takes into account the overall community resources available to COPD patients. This includes access to support groups, community health programs, and transportation services. These resources can play a vital role in supporting patients and improving their quality of life. The analysis assesses the availability and accessibility of these resources for patients in the 18512 ZIP code.

In conclusion, the COPD Score analysis for PCPs in the 18512 ZIP code is a multi-faceted assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support systems. The goal is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the resources available to COPD patients in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and to identify areas where improvements can be made. This analysis is intended to be a starting point for further investigation and action, ultimately aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

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