18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.50 percent of the residents in 18704 has some form of health insurance. 44.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.22 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 18704 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,311 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18704. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,714 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,982 health care providers accessible to residents in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Kingston, PA (ZIP Code 18704)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Kingston, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18704) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, resource accessibility, and the overall quality of care, culminating in a hypothetical “COPD Score” ranking for the area’s medical professionals and the broader healthcare ecosystem. This score isn’t a single number, but rather a comprehensive assessment based on several factors.

The foundation of any effective COPD management program lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Kingston, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. While precise numbers fluctuate, understanding the ratio provides a baseline. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, alongside information from healthcare directories, can help paint a picture. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, would negatively impact the COPD Score. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making it harder for patients to access regular check-ups and necessary interventions.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is critical. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This geographical analysis is crucial. A well-distributed network of PCPs, easily accessible to all residents, would significantly boost the COPD Score. This includes considering the availability of practices accepting new patients, especially those with Medicare or Medicaid, as these are often the primary insurance providers for COPD patients.

The quality of care provided by these PCPs is another essential element. This is where the “standout practices” come into play. Practices demonstrating a commitment to COPD management, through specific programs or expertise, would receive higher marks. This might include practices actively participating in COPD education initiatives, offering pulmonary function testing (PFT) onsite, or having dedicated respiratory therapists on staff. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless information sharing and improved care coordination, would also score favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management through telemedicine can be a game-changer for COPD patients. It reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or living in remote areas. Practices actively embracing telemedicine, providing access to remote patient monitoring devices, and offering virtual support groups would contribute positively to the COPD Score. This includes assessing the availability of telehealth services that specifically cater to the needs of COPD patients, such as virtual pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for COPD patients. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with its impact on breathing and lifestyle, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care programs are highly valued. This could involve partnerships with mental health professionals, offering counseling services, or providing access to support groups. The availability of these resources within the community, even if not directly within the medical practices, is also factored in.

Specialist availability is also critical. While PCPs manage the majority of COPD cases, access to pulmonologists is essential for more complex cases or for patients requiring specialized interventions. The proximity and availability of pulmonologists within the Kingston area are assessed. This includes evaluating the wait times for appointments with pulmonologists and the availability of specialized services such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

The presence of local hospitals and their capabilities also contribute to the overall COPD Score. The availability of emergency services, access to advanced respiratory care, and the hospital's track record in managing COPD exacerbations are all considered. Hospitals with dedicated respiratory units, offering comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and actively participating in COPD research would receive higher marks.

The overall COPD Score for Kingston is not just about individual physician performance; it's about the ecosystem. A high score reflects a community where PCPs are accessible, practices are proactive, telemedicine is embraced, mental health resources are available, and specialists are readily accessible. It also considers the overall healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of pharmacies, home healthcare services, and support groups.

Analyzing the information requires a comprehensive data collection strategy. This involves gathering data from various sources, including public health records, insurance provider databases, physician directories, and patient feedback. It also requires utilizing data visualization tools to identify patterns and trends.

Ultimately, the goal of this COPD Score analysis is to provide a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Kingston, PA. This information can then be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients, leading to improvements in COPD care and overall patient outcomes. The analysis aims to identify areas where resources are lacking, where improvements can be made, and where best practices can be replicated.

For a visually compelling and interactive representation of the healthcare landscape in Kingston, PA, including physician locations, specialist availability, and resource distribution, consider exploring the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for dynamic data visualization and analysis, providing a powerful tool for understanding the complexities of COPD care in your community.