18826, Kingsley, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18826, Kingsley, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.25 percent of the residents in 18826 has some form of health insurance. 41.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.95 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 18826 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 239 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18826. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 432 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 173 health care providers accessible to residents in 18826, Kingsley, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Kingsley, PA (ZIP Code 18826)

Kingsley, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 18826 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge for healthcare providers, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential demographic factors, necessitates a thorough assessment of primary care availability and the quality of COPD management. This analysis will attempt to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific region.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can offer estimates. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a higher concentration of doctors per resident, generally leading to better access. Conversely, a high ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. In Kingsley, the rural setting likely contributes to a higher-than-average physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban areas. This scarcity necessitates innovative solutions to ensure adequate care for COPD patients.

The characteristics of primary care practices within the 18826 ZIP code are paramount. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient needs? Do they have specialized COPD clinics or programs? The presence of these features directly impacts the quality and accessibility of COPD care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer pulmonary function testing (PFTs) on-site, and actively participate in COPD-specific disease management programs are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. A practice that actively engages in preventative care, such as smoking cessation programs, is also highly beneficial.

Identifying standout practices requires delving deeper into patient reviews, physician credentials, and the implementation of best practices. Practices with board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized training in respiratory medicine are often well-equipped to manage complex COPD cases. Furthermore, practices that embrace a team-based approach, involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals, are likely to provide more comprehensive and coordinated care. Practices that consistently demonstrate high patient satisfaction scores and positive clinical outcomes should be recognized for their excellence.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Kingsley. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care from specialists who may not be readily available locally. Remote monitoring of patients' vital signs and symptoms can also facilitate early intervention and prevent exacerbations. The availability of telehealth consultations, remote patient monitoring programs, and online patient portals can significantly improve the accessibility and quality of COPD care. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, yet they are critical. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and offer referrals to mental health services demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Support groups and educational programs that address the psychological aspects of COPD can also significantly improve patients' quality of life.

The "COPD Score" for Kingsley, PA (18826) is a complex calculation. Due to the rural nature of the area, the score likely reflects a moderate challenge in accessing comprehensive COPD care. The physician-to-patient ratio likely presents a barrier to care, requiring creative solutions. Telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources are critical factors that could significantly improve the score. The presence of standout practices that prioritize patient education, implement best practices, and actively participate in disease management programs can also elevate the score.

Improving the COPD score requires a multi-faceted approach. Increasing the number of primary care physicians and specialists in the area is essential. Encouraging practices to adopt telemedicine technologies and integrate mental health services is also critical. Promoting patient education and self-management strategies can empower patients to take an active role in their care. Finally, fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and patients can create a more supportive and effective healthcare ecosystem.

For a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kingsley, PA (18826), including the location of practices, physician availability, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive visualization of healthcare data, enabling you to identify areas of need and optimize resource allocation. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps today.