18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.84 percent of the residents in 18517 has some form of health insurance. 47.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.95 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 18517 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 960 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18517. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,054 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,981 health care providers accessible to residents in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Taylor, PA (ZIP Code 18517)

This analysis delves into the landscape of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) care within Taylor, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the 18517 ZIP code. We will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care services, crucial for managing COPD, and assess the overall support system for patients in this area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' analysis, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

Taylor, a borough in Lackawanna County, faces the same challenges as many rural and suburban communities regarding healthcare access. The prevalence of COPD, often linked to smoking history and environmental factors, necessitates a robust and readily available healthcare infrastructure. A high COPD Score indicates a strong support system for patients, while a low score highlights areas needing attention.

One of the critical factors in determining a COPD Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Taylor, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts patient access. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care. This is particularly detrimental for COPD patients, who require regular monitoring and management of their condition. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires access to up-to-date data, but publicly available resources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can offer valuable insights.

The presence of standout practices within the 18517 ZIP code can significantly elevate the COPD Score. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD care often employ specialized equipment, utilize evidence-based treatment protocols, and offer comprehensive patient education programs. These practices may also have dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses specializing in pulmonary care. Identifying these practices requires a thorough review of local healthcare providers, including their online presence, patient reviews, and affiliations with hospitals or pulmonary specialists.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly vital role in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, contribute positively to the COPD Score. This is especially important in areas with limited transportation options or a geographically dispersed patient population. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are another critical component of a comprehensive COPD care system. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for addressing these challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care programs, or readily refer patients to these resources, improve the overall quality of care and contribute to a higher COPD Score. The availability of these resources, and their accessibility to patients, is a key indicator.

Assessing the overall COPD Score involves evaluating these factors and weighing their relative importance. A high score would reflect a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices with specialized COPD care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A low score would indicate areas needing improvement, such as limited access to PCPs, a lack of specialized COPD care, a slow adoption of telemedicine, and a scarcity of mental health support.

To improve the COPD Score in Taylor, several strategies can be employed. Increasing the number of PCPs, recruiting specialists in pulmonary medicine, and encouraging the adoption of telemedicine are crucial steps. Promoting patient education programs, establishing support groups, and integrating mental health services into COPD care are also essential. Collaborating with local hospitals, community organizations, and healthcare providers can facilitate these improvements.

Furthermore, analyzing the distribution of healthcare resources within the 18517 ZIP code is vital. Are services concentrated in specific areas, leaving other parts of the community underserved? Are there disparities in access based on socioeconomic factors or other demographic characteristics? Addressing these inequalities is critical for ensuring equitable access to COPD care for all residents.

The COPD Score is not a static metric; it should be regularly evaluated and updated. As healthcare practices evolve and new technologies emerge, the COPD Score should be adjusted to reflect these changes. Continuous monitoring and assessment are essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that COPD patients in Taylor receive the best possible care.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment that supports COPD patients in managing their condition effectively and improving their quality of life. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and the patients themselves. By focusing on access to care, specialized services, and mental health support, Taylor can strive to achieve a high COPD Score and become a model for COPD care in other communities.

To visualize and analyze the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics within the 18517 ZIP code, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Taylor, PA.