18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.57 percent of the residents in 18708 has some form of health insurance. 31.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.17 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 18708 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,540 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18708. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,925 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,701 health care providers accessible to residents in 18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Resources in Shavertown (ZIP Code 18708)

Analyzing the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Shavertown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18708) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the current landscape, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability, resources for COPD management, and the overall accessibility of care within the community. We will evaluate the "COPD Score" based on key factors influencing patient outcomes and quality of life.

The foundation of COPD care often rests with primary care physicians. In Shavertown, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised care. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, coupled with information from healthcare directories, can provide estimates for this ratio. However, these figures alone don't tell the whole story. The number of physicians actively accepting new patients, particularly those with COPD, is a more critical metric. Practices with open appointment slots for new patients, especially those specializing in pulmonary medicine or internal medicine with a focus on respiratory health, will score higher.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by these primary care physicians is paramount. A robust COPD Score considers the adoption of evidence-based practices. This includes the consistent use of spirometry for diagnosis and monitoring, the implementation of patient education programs regarding medication adherence and lifestyle modifications (smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation), and the proactive management of exacerbations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these protocols will naturally earn a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor influencing the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers several advantages for COPD patients, including remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, especially those offering remote patient monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to provide continuous care and manage exacerbations effectively. The availability of remote monitoring can significantly reduce hospital readmissions and improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the COPD Score must account for the availability of specialized resources. This includes access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are essential for improving lung function and quality of life. The presence of respiratory therapists and certified educators within the primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals significantly boosts the score. The proximity and accessibility of specialized pulmonary clinics and hospitals equipped to handle acute COPD exacerbations are also vital considerations.

Mental health resources also play a crucial role in COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, including therapists and support groups, is a crucial component of holistic care. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to appropriate resources will contribute positively to the overall COPD Score. Integration of mental health services within the primary care setting, or strong collaborative relationships with mental health professionals, is highly desirable.

Identifying standout practices within Shavertown requires a deeper dive. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and actively engage with patients to manage their COPD are likely to be highly rated. This involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the practice's communication protocols, and evaluating the overall patient experience. Practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on reducing hospital readmissions, would receive a higher score.

The COPD Score is dynamic and requires continuous monitoring. Changes in physician availability, the introduction of new technologies, and shifts in healthcare policies can all impact the score. Regular updates and assessments are essential to ensure that the community has access to the best possible care. This includes monitoring the adoption of new COPD medications and therapies, and the effectiveness of existing treatments.

The analysis of COPD care in Shavertown, Pennsylvania, reveals a complex landscape. The COPD Score, based on the factors outlined above, provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of care. It is a tool to identify areas for improvement and highlight practices that are excelling in COPD management. This assessment is not a static evaluation but a continuous process of improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Shavertown, including the location of primary care practices, pulmonary specialists, and available resources, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual tool to understand the distribution of healthcare providers and assess the accessibility of care. By using CartoChrome maps, residents and healthcare professionals can gain valuable insights into the local healthcare ecosystem and identify potential gaps in services.