19023, Darby, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19023, Darby, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.11 percent of the residents in 19023 has some form of health insurance. 48.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.40 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 19023 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,912 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19023. An estimate of 33 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,925 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,085 health care providers accessible to residents in 19023, Darby, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of COPD care quality and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 19023 (Darby, Pennsylvania) requires a multifaceted approach. Assessing a "COPD Score" for physicians necessitates evaluating several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of integrated mental health services. This analysis will also consider the overall primary care landscape in Darby, focusing on access and resource distribution.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. A high ratio, meaning a large number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially impact the quality of care, particularly for chronic conditions like COPD. In Darby, the physician density needs to be compared to both regional and national averages. Are there enough primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists to adequately serve the population, especially considering the prevalence of COPD, which is often higher in areas with socioeconomic challenges? Areas with higher rates of smoking, for example, often experience a greater incidence of COPD.

Standout practices within 19023 can be identified by looking at several key metrics. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based COPD management, such as regular spirometry testing, patient education programs, and medication adherence support, should be recognized. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also crucial for tracking patient progress, coordinating care, and ensuring that patients receive timely interventions. Are there practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the American Lung Association? These practices often demonstrate a higher standard of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, which are common barriers in underserved communities. Are physicians in Darby utilizing telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation? The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and provide timely interventions can help prevent exacerbations and hospitalizations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to COPD management. The chronic nature of COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who can provide counseling and medication management. Do practices offer screening for depression and anxiety? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health providers?

The primary care landscape in Darby must be assessed in terms of accessibility. This involves considering the geographic distribution of practices, the availability of appointment slots, and the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Are there enough PCPs accepting new patients? Are there any urgent care centers or walk-in clinics that can provide immediate care for COPD exacerbations? The presence of community health centers, which often serve underserved populations, is also a significant factor.

The "COPD Score" for doctors in 19023 will be impacted by the level of coordination between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and other specialists. Effective communication and information sharing are essential for providing seamless care. This includes the use of shared EHRs, regular case conferences, and established referral pathways. Are there any practices that actively participate in care coordination programs, such as those offered by accountable care organizations (ACOs)?

The availability of resources such as respiratory therapists, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and smoking cessation programs also impacts the quality of COPD care. These resources can help patients manage their symptoms, improve their lung function, and quit smoking. Are these resources readily available in Darby, or do patients have to travel long distances to access them? Are there any community-based programs that provide support for COPD patients?

The socioeconomic characteristics of the population in Darby must also be considered. Factors such as poverty, education levels, and access to transportation can significantly impact health outcomes. Are there any practices that are specifically designed to serve the needs of low-income patients? Do they offer language services for non-English speakers? Do they provide assistance with accessing medications and other essential resources?

In conclusion, assessing the "COPD Score" for physicians in 19023 involves a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, primary care accessibility, and the availability of support services. The quality of care is also affected by the level of care coordination and the socioeconomic characteristics of the population. A thorough assessment of these factors will provide a more complete picture of the COPD care landscape in Darby.

For a dynamic, interactive map visualizing physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability within ZIP code 19023, we encourage you to explore the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This powerful tool allows you to visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the COPD care landscape in Darby.