18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.76 percent of the residents in 18845 has some form of health insurance. 59.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.41 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 18845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 84 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18845. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 154 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 603 health care providers accessible to residents in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Stevensville, PA (ZIP Code 18845) – A Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the primary care landscape within Stevensville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18845), specifically evaluating the availability of resources and care for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). We will examine the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight noteworthy practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all factors crucial for COPD patients. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Stevensville, and the surrounding areas feeding into the 18845 ZIP code, is a critical starting point. Determining this ratio requires a detailed understanding of the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the area, compared to the estimated population. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau are essential. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment for COPD patients. Conversely, a higher ratio, while preferable, doesn’t guarantee quality of care; it's just the first piece of the puzzle.

The challenge in rural areas like Stevensville is often the uneven distribution of healthcare providers. While the overall ratio might appear acceptable, the geographical spread of doctors can create significant barriers for patients, especially those with mobility limitations common in COPD. Travel time to appointments, availability of public transportation, and the presence of specialists are all important considerations. The analysis will consider these factors to provide a more nuanced understanding of access.

Identifying standout practices within the 18845 ZIP code is crucial. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management. This could include practices with a specific focus on pulmonary health, those employing certified respiratory therapists, or those offering comprehensive patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or utilize evidence-based guidelines for COPD treatment would also score favorably.

Key indicators of a strong practice include the use of spirometry testing for diagnosis and monitoring, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and a proactive approach to medication management. Patient testimonials and online reviews, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences and the quality of care provided. The analysis will aim to identify practices that excel in these areas, highlighting their best practices for the benefit of the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element of the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for COPD patients, particularly those with mobility issues or living in remote areas. It enables remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations with physicians, and access to educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, and online patient portals, will receive higher scores.

The success of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the integration of telemedicine into the existing healthcare workflow. The analysis will assess the extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the practices within the 18845 ZIP code, evaluating the ease of access and the range of services offered.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for COPD patients. Living with COPD can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health support, including counseling, therapy, and access to psychiatric services, is crucial for managing the psychological impact of the disease.

The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health providers within the area, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. It will also assess the extent to which primary care practices collaborate with mental health professionals, providing integrated care for patients. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways will be highly regarded.

A comprehensive 'COPD Score' for the 18845 ZIP code will be derived by weighting these factors: physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of standout practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor will be assessed based on available data, research, and public information. The score will provide a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

The final 'COPD Score' will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care for COPD patients in Stevensville. This assessment is not intended to be definitive, but rather a starting point for further investigation and improvement. It will serve as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, informing decisions related to healthcare access and resource allocation.

The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and actionable assessment of the healthcare landscape, helping to ensure that COPD patients in Stevensville receive the best possible care. This includes identifying opportunities for improvement, promoting best practices, and advocating for increased access to essential resources. The analysis will strive to be objective, data-driven, and patient-centered, providing a valuable contribution to the health and well-being of the community.

For a more detailed and interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Stevensville, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographical data, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare ecosystem within the 18845 ZIP code and beyond.