18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.63 percent of the residents in 18614 has some form of health insurance. 48.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.24 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 18614 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 230 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18614. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 537 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 179 health care providers accessible to residents in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Dushore, PA (ZIP Code 18614)

Analyzing the quality of COPD care in Dushore, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18614) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive "COPD Score" assessment for the area.

Dushore, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such locations: limited access to specialized care and potential difficulties in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. Assessing the COPD care landscape therefore necessitates understanding these inherent hurdles.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective COPD management. Patients often require regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and education regarding their condition. The number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita is a crucial metric. A low PCP-to-patient ratio could indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis or treatment adjustments for COPD patients. This directly impacts the "COPD Score."

To accurately assess the PCP-to-patient ratio, data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association (AMA), and local hospital systems would be essential. These sources would reveal the number of practicing PCPs within the 18614 ZIP code and the estimated population served. A higher ratio (more patients per PCP) would negatively affect the "COPD Score," indicating potential access barriers.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of primary care practices matter. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer advantages such as shared resources, covering physicians, and a wider range of services. Affiliation with a larger system might provide access to specialized pulmonology consultations and diagnostic facilities, crucial for managing COPD. The presence of these elements would positively influence the "COPD Score."

Identifying "standout practices" involves assessing their approach to COPD care. Do they have dedicated COPD management programs? Do they offer patient education sessions on topics like inhaler technique, breathing exercises, and disease management strategies? The implementation of evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, such as those from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), would be a strong indicator of quality care. Practices actively involved in patient education and self-management support would receive a higher rating, boosting the overall "COPD Score."

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in rural healthcare. It can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with physicians remotely, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. The availability of telemedicine consultations, including virtual visits for COPD-related concerns, would significantly enhance the "COPD Score." This includes the availability of remote monitoring devices, allowing physicians to track patients' vital signs and symptoms from afar.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is critical in COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial. The integration of these services within primary care practices, or through readily accessible referrals, would significantly improve the "COPD Score." Practices that actively screen patients for mental health issues and provide or facilitate access to mental health support would receive a higher rating.

Furthermore, the presence of support groups, educational resources, and community-based programs specifically designed for COPD patients would positively impact the "COPD Score." These resources empower patients to manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life.

The "COPD Score" for Dushore, PA, would be a composite metric, reflecting the factors discussed above. It would not be a simple numerical score but a nuanced assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the COPD care landscape. A high score would indicate excellent access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, robust telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health services, and a commitment to patient education and self-management. A low score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as limited access to primary care, a lack of telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health support.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of COPD care in Dushore requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. The "COPD Score" would serve as a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of COPD care in a rural setting and underscores the importance of addressing access barriers, integrating mental health resources, and promoting patient education.

If you're interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of Dushore and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care providers, hospitals, and pharmacies, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their maps offer valuable insights for patients and healthcare professionals alike.