18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.02 percent of the residents in 18854 has some form of health insurance. 37.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.88 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 18854 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 340 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18854. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 290 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,896 health care providers accessible to residents in 18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Wysox, PA (ZIP Code 18854)

Analyzing the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Wysox, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18854) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, focusing on primary care physicians and related resources, aims to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective COPD management. This score, though not a definitive numerical value, will offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape for COPD patients.

The foundation of COPD care rests heavily on accessible primary care. In Wysox, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Determining the exact ratio necessitates considering the total population of the ZIP code and the number of actively practicing primary care physicians accepting new patients. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care providers, immediately elevates the risk of delayed diagnoses, inadequate follow-up care, and exacerbations of COPD symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio, while promising, doesn't guarantee quality. The expertise of the physicians in managing COPD, their familiarity with local pulmonologists, and their willingness to proactively manage the disease are equally vital.

Standout practices within the Wysox area should be identified based on their commitment to COPD care. This involves investigating practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, including providing resources on smoking cessation, proper inhaler techniques, and symptom management. Practices that offer on-site pulmonary function testing (spirometry) or readily refer patients for these tests are also highly valued. Furthermore, clinics that participate in COPD-specific quality improvement initiatives or maintain a robust patient registry for COPD management should be acknowledged as exemplary. The availability of chronic care management programs within these practices is another key indicator of a strong COPD care model.

Telemedicine has become increasingly relevant, especially for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Its adoption within Wysox’s primary care practices can significantly impact the "COPD Score." Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and symptom monitoring, potentially reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, are likely to score higher. This assessment should also consider the ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine data with the patient's electronic health record.

Mental health considerations are often overlooked in COPD management, yet they are crucial. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources within the Wysox healthcare ecosystem directly influences the "COPD Score." This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, specifically for individuals with COPD, is another positive factor. The integration of mental health screening and treatment into the COPD care plan, either directly within the primary care practice or through seamless referral pathways, is a critical component of comprehensive COPD management.

Beyond individual practices, the broader healthcare infrastructure in Wysox influences the "COPD Score." This includes the presence of a local hospital with a dedicated pulmonology department and readily available respiratory therapists. The proximity of specialized pulmonary rehabilitation programs is also essential. The efficiency of referral processes, the communication between primary care physicians and specialists, and the overall coordination of care are all contributing factors. The availability of emergency services and the responsiveness of the local EMS system in managing COPD exacerbations are also relevant considerations.

The "COPD Score" for Wysox, PA, is ultimately a reflection of the collective efforts of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the community's commitment to supporting individuals with COPD. While a numerical score is not being assigned here, the analysis highlights the critical factors that influence the quality of care. A comprehensive assessment of the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of specialized resources is crucial for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. This analysis underscores the need for ongoing evaluation and improvement to ensure that individuals with COPD in Wysox receive the best possible care.

The analysis should also consider the impact of social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and housing stability, on COPD outcomes. These factors can significantly influence a patient's ability to manage their condition and access necessary care. Addressing these social determinants requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, social service agencies, and community organizations.

In conclusion, understanding the complexities of COPD care in Wysox, PA, requires a detailed examination of various factors. To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. This tool allows for a comprehensive geographic analysis of the healthcare landscape, providing valuable insights for patients, providers, and policymakers.