18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.01 percent of the residents in 18832 has some form of health insurance. 43.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.33 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 18832 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 431 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18832. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 339 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,891 health care providers accessible to residents in 18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Monroeton, PA (ZIP Code 18832)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients within the Monroeton, Pennsylvania area, specifically focusing on the 18832 ZIP code. We will assess the landscape of primary care physicians, their resources, and their approaches to managing COPD, ultimately aiming to provide an understanding of the COPD care 'score' for residents. This will include a review of physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all critical aspects of holistic COPD management.

The initial assessment reveals a rural setting, where access to specialized healthcare, including pulmonologists, may be limited. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, data suggests that 18832 likely experiences a lower physician density compared to more urban areas. This means that the existing primary care physicians (PCPs) bear a significant responsibility in managing COPD cases, often serving as the first point of contact and providing ongoing care. This underscores the importance of their expertise and resources.

The availability of primary care in Monroeton is a significant factor. The presence of a robust primary care network is fundamental to effective COPD management. This includes not just the number of physicians, but also their accessibility, appointment availability, and the range of services they offer. A practice with extended hours, walk-in availability, or the capacity to provide same-day appointments for acute exacerbations can dramatically improve patient outcomes. We will consider the presence of practices that actively participate in COPD-focused programs, such as those emphasizing smoking cessation or pulmonary rehabilitation.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are medical facilities that consistently demonstrate excellence in COPD care. This could involve implementing best-practice guidelines, offering comprehensive patient education, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools, and demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. These practices often excel in areas like medication management, providing clear and concise instructions, and proactively monitoring patients for signs of worsening symptoms. They may also have dedicated staff members, like respiratory therapists or nurses, who specialize in COPD management.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The utilization of telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Telemedicine can help bridge the gap created by geographical limitations, enabling patients to connect with their physicians for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and symptom management support. The ability to remotely monitor patients' lung function, oxygen saturation, and other vital signs can also facilitate early intervention and prevent hospitalizations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but are a critical component. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through referrals, is vital. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns and provide appropriate referrals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

The overall COPD score for Monroeton, PA (ZIP Code 18832) is therefore a complex evaluation. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the accessibility and quality of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the degree of telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialized care, and a lack of telemedicine adoption would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a strong primary care network, practices committed to COPD-specific programs, and readily available mental health services would contribute to a higher score.

A comprehensive assessment would involve gathering data on the number of PCPs, their appointment availability, the presence of specialized staff, the utilization of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. It would also include evaluating the practices' adherence to COPD guidelines, their patient education programs, and their patient satisfaction scores. This would provide a more nuanced and accurate picture of the COPD care landscape in Monroeton.

The assessment should also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. These factors, such as income, education, and access to transportation, can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. Understanding these factors is crucial for tailoring care to meet the specific needs of the community.

The ultimate goal is to identify areas for improvement and to support the development of a more robust and patient-centered COPD care system. This might involve initiatives to increase the number of PCPs, expand telemedicine services, improve access to mental health resources, and promote patient education and self-management strategies.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Monroeton, and to visualize the locations of medical facilities, primary care availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize geographic data, providing valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and the accessibility of care within the 18832 ZIP code and beyond.