18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 18519 has some form of health insurance. 44.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.35 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 18519 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,209 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18519. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,045 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,943 health care providers accessible to residents in 18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

**COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18519 and Primary Care Availability in Scranton**

The health landscape of Scranton, Pennsylvania, particularly within ZIP code 18519, presents a complex interplay of factors influencing the care available to individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," assesses the accessibility and quality of primary care services, focusing on the resources available to address the specific needs of COPD patients. It examines physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, evaluates telemedicine adoption, and explores the availability of crucial mental health resources, all within the context of Scranton's healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on robust primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of a COPD Score. In 18519, the physician-to-patient ratio is a significant factor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, routine check-ups, and specialized care coordination. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate disease management, and increased hospitalizations for COPD exacerbations. Data from various sources must be analyzed to determine the exact ratio. Local hospitals and health systems, like Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital, can be assessed to determine the number of PCPs serving the area and estimate the patient population.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by PCPs is paramount. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management, evidenced by their adherence to established guidelines and the utilization of best practices, will contribute positively to the COPD Score. These practices often employ specialized equipment for pulmonary function testing (PFTs), offer patient education programs, and actively monitor patients' symptoms. Practices that actively participate in chronic disease management programs and have a high volume of COPD patients are likely to be more proficient in managing this condition. Reviewing patient testimonials and online reviews can also provide insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve access to care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. Its adoption within 18519 is a crucial element of the COPD Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, can significantly enhance patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those with limited mobility or living in remote areas. Examining the availability of telehealth services, the types of platforms used, and patient satisfaction with these services is essential. The integration of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, can provide valuable data to PCPs, enabling proactive intervention and preventing exacerbations.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the interplay between the disease and mental health. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a critical component of the COPD Score. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will score higher. The integration of mental health services into COPD care can improve patient outcomes, enhance adherence to treatment plans, and reduce the risk of complications.

Scranton's healthcare infrastructure, including its hospitals and community health centers, plays a significant role in supporting primary care and COPD management. The presence of specialized pulmonary clinics, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs can significantly enhance the COPD Score. These resources provide patients with access to specialized expertise, comprehensive care, and support services. Analyzing the availability of these resources and their accessibility to patients within 18519 is essential. The coordination between primary care practices and these specialized services is also crucial.

The COPD Score is not static; it evolves with changes in the healthcare landscape. Regular updates are needed to reflect changes in physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients with COPD receive the best possible care. This includes tracking patient outcomes, such as hospitalization rates, exacerbation frequency, and quality of life measures.

The assessment of practices should include their willingness to participate in clinical trials or research studies related to COPD. This demonstrates a commitment to advancing knowledge and improving patient care. Additionally, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is a key factor. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information, improve care coordination, and support data-driven decision-making.

The economic factors affecting healthcare access in Scranton also influence the COPD Score. The affordability of healthcare services, including medication costs, copays, and insurance coverage, is a critical consideration. Practices that offer financial assistance programs or work with patients to manage their healthcare costs will contribute positively to the score. The prevalence of health insurance coverage and the availability of programs like Medicare and Medicaid are also important factors.

The COPD Score for 18519 and Scranton, therefore, is a dynamic metric that requires a multi-faceted approach. It is not a simple ranking but a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem. It considers access to primary care, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the economic factors influencing healthcare access. This evaluation should be regularly updated to reflect the changing healthcare landscape.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources within ZIP code 18519, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for detailed spatial analysis, enabling you to visualize physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points.