18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.17 percent of the residents in 18847 has some form of health insurance. 49.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.67 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 18847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,410 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,027 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 161 health care providers accessible to residents in 18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Susquehanna, PA (ZIP Code 18847)

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and the overall support system for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18847) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, a "COPD Score" assessment, considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized COPD care, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In a rural area like Susquehanna County, and specifically within the 18847 ZIP code, the availability of primary care physicians is likely to be limited compared to more urban settings. Data from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would need to be cross-referenced to determine the exact population within this ZIP code and the number of practicing primary care physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio (e.g., a high number of patients per physician) would indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and management of COPD.

The presence of specialized COPD care is another key factor. Ideally, the area should have pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These specialists provide focused expertise in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of COPD. Without these specialized resources, patients may be forced to travel significant distances to receive adequate care, further exacerbating the challenges faced by those with breathing difficulties. The availability of diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, and access to pulmonary function testing are crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of COPD progression.

Examining the healthcare practices within the 18847 ZIP code is crucial to identify standout providers and potential gaps in care. This analysis would involve researching individual practices, reviewing their websites, and potentially conducting interviews with patients or healthcare professionals. Identifying practices that prioritize COPD management, offer comprehensive services, and have a strong patient-centered approach would be beneficial. The presence of certified COPD educators, who can provide patients with education on disease management, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications, is particularly important.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Assessing the extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in the 18847 ZIP code utilize telemedicine is essential. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals can significantly improve the management of COPD, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who live in remote areas.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic respiratory illnesses like COPD. The physical and emotional toll of COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for addressing these issues. Identifying whether primary care practices in the 18847 ZIP code have integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals is a critical component of the COPD Score analysis. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing holistic care.

Furthermore, the COPD Score analysis should consider the availability of community resources. This includes support groups, educational programs, and access to resources such as oxygen therapy and home healthcare services. The presence of local pharmacies that specialize in respiratory medications and offer medication counseling is also beneficial. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations can enhance the overall support system for COPD patients.

The analysis must also consider the accessibility of these resources. This includes factors such as transportation options, insurance coverage, and language barriers. Ensuring that patients can easily access the care and support they need is essential for improving their quality of life and managing their COPD effectively. A comprehensive analysis will also assess the availability of patient education materials, both in print and online formats, to empower patients to actively participate in their own care.

In conclusion, the COPD Score analysis for the 18847 ZIP code in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, is a complex undertaking. It requires a thorough assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized COPD care, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of community support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in this area, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This type of assessment helps patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and allows healthcare providers to identify opportunities to enhance the care they provide.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics in the Susquehanna area, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and the challenges faced by COPD patients.