18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.91 percent of the residents in 18642 has some form of health insurance. 43.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.80 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 18642 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 645 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18642. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,000 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Duryea, PA (ZIP Code 18642)

Duryea, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 18642 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area, assessing factors relevant to COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "COPD Score" analysis, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Duryea is a critical indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, publicly available data, combined with anecdotal observations, suggests a potential strain on resources. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient visit, and potentially, delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care – all detrimental to effective COPD management. This necessitates a careful evaluation of the existing PCP pool.

Several primary care practices operate within or serve the 18642 ZIP code. Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors. These include the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities (such as spirometry, a crucial test for COPD diagnosis and monitoring), and the practice's commitment to patient education and self-management strategies. Practices that actively participate in COPD-focused initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs or pulmonary rehabilitation referrals, deserve higher consideration. Furthermore, the practice’s responsiveness to patient needs, as reflected in online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys, is a crucial element.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Its adoption within Duryea's primary care practices is a significant factor in the COPD Score analysis. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring can enhance patient access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The ability to conduct virtual follow-up appointments and provide timely interventions can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital readmissions. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration, the types of services offered virtually, and the ease of access for patients are essential considerations.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges due to the physical limitations and social isolation associated with the disease. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that have integrated behavioral health specialists, offer on-site counseling services, or maintain strong referral networks with mental health professionals score higher in this area. The ability to address the psychological needs of COPD patients can significantly improve their quality of life and their adherence to treatment plans.

Analyzing the specific practices within the 18642 ZIP code reveals a mixed picture. Some practices demonstrate a strong commitment to COPD care, boasting experienced physicians, on-site diagnostic capabilities, and active participation in COPD-focused programs. These practices often receive positive patient feedback and demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education and self-management. However, other practices may lag in these areas, potentially due to resource constraints or a lack of specialized expertise. The degree of telemedicine adoption also varies, with some practices embracing virtual care options while others have yet to fully integrate these technologies.

The availability of mental health resources also presents a mixed bag. Some practices have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals, while others may need to improve their capacity to address the psychological needs of their COPD patients. The overall COPD Score for Duryea, PA (18642) reflects this variability. While some practices excel in providing comprehensive COPD care, others require improvement in areas such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration.

The analysis suggests that while a foundation of primary care exists in Duryea, there is room for improvement to optimize COPD care. Addressing the potential strain on physician resources, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and strengthening the integration of mental health services are critical steps toward enhancing the quality of care for COPD patients in the community. Further investigation into specific practice characteristics, patient outcomes, and community resources is recommended to develop targeted interventions and improve the overall COPD Score for the area.

To gain a more visual and data-driven understanding of the healthcare landscape in Duryea, PA (18642), including the distribution of primary care physicians, the location of specialized services, and the availability of community resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographical data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of healthcare resources in your area.