18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.53 percent of the residents in 18617 has some form of health insurance. 45.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.55 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 18617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 206 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18617. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 229 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,926 health care providers accessible to residents in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania.

The analysis will focus on assessing the quality of COPD care and primary care availability in Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18617). This will involve evaluating factors like physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in managing a chronic respiratory condition like COPD. A comprehensive understanding of these elements will provide a nuanced 'COPD Score' ranking for the area.

Glen Lyon, a small community nestled in Luzerne County, faces unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The area's demographics, including an aging population and potential socioeconomic factors, can influence the prevalence and management of COPD. Therefore, a thorough assessment must consider these contextual elements.

Physician-to-patient ratios are fundamental to understanding healthcare access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulties in receiving timely care. Data on the number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists practicing within the 18617 ZIP code will be crucial. This data needs to be compared against the estimated population of Glen Lyon to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A favorable ratio, indicating a higher availability of physicians, would positively influence the 'COPD Score.' Conversely, a low ratio would negatively impact the score, suggesting potential barriers to accessing adequate care.

Identifying standout practices within the area is another essential aspect of the analysis. This involves researching practices known for providing excellent COPD care. Criteria for evaluation include the availability of specialized equipment for diagnosis and treatment, such as spirometry machines and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources on managing COPD symptoms, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices would also receive high marks. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD would be considered particularly commendable, reflecting a dedication to advancing care.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Glen Lyon. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups. The 'COPD Score' analysis will assess the extent to which practices in 18617 utilize telemedicine technologies. Practices offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources will be rated more favorably. The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, ultimately enhancing the overall 'COPD Score.'

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, component of COPD care. The chronic nature of COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the community is vital. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who specialize in treating patients with chronic illnesses. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, will also be considered. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, will be viewed positively, leading to a higher 'COPD Score.'

The evaluation of these factors will culminate in a 'COPD Score' ranking for the doctors and primary care availability in Glen Lyon. The score will be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a community with good access to quality COPD care, while a low score would highlight areas needing improvement.

The analysis will also consider the potential impact of healthcare policies and insurance coverage on COPD care in Glen Lyon. The availability of affordable medications, access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and coverage for telemedicine services are all crucial factors influencing the overall quality of care. These considerations will be integrated into the final 'COPD Score' assessment.

The assessment will involve gathering data from various sources, including public health databases, physician directories, and healthcare provider websites. Patient reviews and testimonials will also be considered to gain insights into the patient experience. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and objective evaluation of the COPD care landscape in Glen Lyon.

In conclusion, the 'COPD Score' analysis for Glen Lyon will offer a detailed assessment of the quality and accessibility of COPD care within the 18617 ZIP code. The analysis will identify strengths and weaknesses, providing valuable insights for healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers. The ultimate aim is to contribute to improved COPD management and outcomes for residents of Glen Lyon.

For a visual representation of these findings, including a geographical mapping of healthcare resources and physician locations, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide an interactive and intuitive way to visualize the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Glen Lyon.