19082, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19082, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.51 percent of the residents in 19082 has some form of health insurance. 46.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.33 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 19082 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,223 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 408 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19082. An estimate of 98 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93,676 health care providers accessible to residents in 19082, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 19082 and Primary Care Availability in Upper Darby

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management within ZIP code 19082, encompassing Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, a “COPD Score” assessment, considers physician density, access to specialized care, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, crucial for COPD patients. The goal is to understand the current landscape and identify areas for improvement, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with this debilitating respiratory condition.

The initial metric to evaluate is physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care. However, simply counting doctors is insufficient. We need to understand the distribution of primary care physicians (PCPs) within 19082, considering the concentration of practices and their patient load. The average patient panel size of a PCP is also a crucial factor. Larger panel sizes may indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying critical COPD management. Data from reputable sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and local hospital systems would be essential to accurately assess this.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by these PCPs is paramount. Are they board-certified in internal medicine or family practice? Do they have specific training or experience in pulmonology or respiratory care? This information is vital for effective COPD management, as PCPs often serve as the primary point of contact for patients, coordinating care with pulmonologists and other specialists. The presence of certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) within primary care practices is also a significant advantage, providing on-site support for pulmonary function testing, medication management, and patient education.

The availability of pulmonologists and specialized respiratory services within and near 19082 is another critical component of the COPD Score. Access to pulmonologists for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring is essential for individuals with COPD. Proximity to hospitals with pulmonology departments and respiratory therapy units is a significant advantage. The presence of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which offer supervised exercise, education, and support, further enhances the COPD Score. These programs are proven to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the overall quality of life for COPD patients.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on COPD management is significant. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with mobility limitations or who live far from their doctor's office. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management via telehealth platforms, receive a higher score. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and spirometers, that allow patients to track their lung function at home, further enhances the COPD Score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, receive a higher score. Integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices are particularly beneficial, allowing patients to receive both medical and mental health care in a coordinated manner. The availability of support groups specifically for COPD patients, either in-person or online, also contributes to a higher COPD Score.

Identifying standout practices within 19082 requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD management, including:
* Proactive patient education
* Regular pulmonary function testing
* Medication optimization
* Smoking cessation support
* Vaccination against influenza and pneumonia
* Care coordination with specialists
* Patient-centered care

These practices would be considered high-performing and contribute positively to the overall COPD Score. Patient reviews, online ratings, and physician referrals can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by these practices.

The overall COPD Score for 19082 is a composite of all these factors. It's not a single number but a nuanced assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem. A higher score indicates better access to care, more comprehensive COPD management, and a greater emphasis on patient well-being. A lower score highlights areas that need improvement, such as increasing physician density, expanding telemedicine adoption, or enhancing mental health resources.

To obtain a truly granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Upper Darby, a visual representation is invaluable. Mapping the distribution of primary care practices, pulmonologists, hospitals, and support services allows for a clear visualization of access to care. This visual data can identify areas with limited access and guide resource allocation efforts.

For a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of healthcare access in Upper Darby, including detailed maps of physician locations, practice profiles, and resource availability, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools and data visualization capabilities, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions to improve the lives of individuals with COPD.