18660, Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18660, Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.14 percent of the residents in 18660 has some form of health insurance. 35.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.35 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 18660 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 656 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18660. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 650 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,211 health care providers accessible to residents in 18660, Wapwallopen, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Wapwallopen, PA (ZIP Code 18660)

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, specifically concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within the Wapwallopen, PA (ZIP Code 18660) area necessitates a nuanced approach. This analysis considers factors beyond simple physician counts, delving into physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical elements in providing comprehensive COPD care.

The initial assessment reveals a limited pool of primary care physicians directly practicing within the 18660 ZIP code. This geographic reality necessitates a broader consideration of practices within a reasonable commuting distance, likely encompassing surrounding towns like Hazleton, Berwick, and Bloomsburg. This expanded scope is crucial for understanding the true accessibility of care for residents of Wapwallopen. Physician-to-patient ratios, therefore, become a critical metric. While precise figures are difficult to obtain without access to proprietary databases, publicly available information from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can be used to estimate these ratios. A high patient-to-physician ratio suggests potential strain on existing resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates greater availability and potentially improved patient outcomes.

Standout practices in the region, while not definitively identified without a more granular investigation, likely demonstrate several key characteristics. These include a focus on preventative care, early COPD detection through spirometry and other diagnostic tools, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices that actively participate in patient education programs, providing information on smoking cessation, medication adherence, and pulmonary rehabilitation, are also likely to be considered high-quality providers. Furthermore, practices that have integrated electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals generally offer improved communication and care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption, particularly in the context of COPD management, presents a significant opportunity to improve access to care for residents of Wapwallopen. Telehealth can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of patients' conditions. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring devices (like pulse oximeters), and online educational resources, are positioned to provide more convenient and accessible care. The level of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, becomes a key indicator of a practice's commitment to patient-centered care.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health resources plays a critical role in COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and integrate mental health services into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This includes providing access to mental health professionals, offering support groups, and screening patients for mental health conditions. The presence of these resources, either within the primary care practice or through referrals to external providers, is a crucial indicator of a practice's commitment to comprehensive COPD care. The availability of these resources directly impacts patient well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

Further investigation should delve into the specific practices within the expanded geographic area. This includes identifying the types of services offered, the insurance plans accepted, and the patient satisfaction ratings. Analyzing the practice's staffing levels, including the presence of registered nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals, provides insight into the breadth of care provided. The integration of specialists, such as pulmonologists, within the practice or through referral networks is also a crucial factor.

The analysis should consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are essential for improving lung function, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life for COPD patients. The proximity and accessibility of these programs are significant. Furthermore, the level of patient education and support offered by the practice, including access to educational materials, smoking cessation programs, and support groups, is a critical factor in patient outcomes.

The accessibility of pharmacies and respiratory equipment suppliers within the Wapwallopen area is another important consideration. Patients with COPD often require regular access to medications, oxygen therapy, and other respiratory equipment. The proximity of these resources and the ease with which patients can obtain them can significantly impact their ability to manage their condition effectively.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of COPD care in Wapwallopen, PA (ZIP Code 18660) requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources. A comprehensive analysis would also consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, patient education initiatives, and access to pharmacies and respiratory equipment suppliers. This detailed assessment provides a more accurate understanding of the resources available to residents managing COPD.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider exploring the power of geospatial data. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing this information, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wapwallopen and surrounding areas.