19525, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19525, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.42 percent of the residents in 19525 has some form of health insurance. 21.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.81 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 19525 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,027 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19525. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,237 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,735 health care providers accessible to residents in 19525, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Gilbertsville, PA (ZIP Code 19525)

Analyzing the COPD landscape in Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19525) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) but also the accessibility and quality of primary care available to manage this chronic condition. This analysis focuses on assessing the availability and effectiveness of healthcare resources for COPD patients within this specific geographic area.

A critical factor influencing COPD care is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can create significant barriers to accessing timely and consistent care. Researching the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 19525 ZIP code is the first step. This data must then be compared to the estimated population of Gilbertsville to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. National averages and benchmarks can then be used to determine whether the local ratio is adequate, potentially strained, or even underserved.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of primary care practices operating in Gilbertsville are important. Are there solo practices, group practices, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer advantages like shared resources, on-call coverage, and a wider range of specialized services. Affiliations with hospitals or health systems can improve access to ancillary services like pulmonary rehabilitation, respiratory therapy, and diagnostic imaging, all crucial for COPD management.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. This involves researching practices with positive patient reviews, a proven track record of managing COPD, and a commitment to patient education and disease management. Look for practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on reducing hospital readmissions for COPD exacerbations. Gathering information on the specific services offered, including spirometry testing, smoking cessation programs, and access to pulmonary specialists, is also critical.

The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices is a crucial element in assessing COPD care accessibility. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those facing transportation challenges. Evaluating the extent to which local practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals provides a window into their commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management. The availability of telehealth services can significantly impact the overall COPD score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but they are critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Assessing the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the 19525 ZIP code is essential. Does primary care provide integrated mental health services or referrals? Are there local support groups for COPD patients and their families? The presence and accessibility of these resources directly impact the quality of life for COPD patients.

Further investigation should explore the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs in or near Gilbertsville. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive program designed to improve the physical and emotional well-being of people with chronic lung disease. It typically includes exercise training, education about COPD, breathing techniques, and psychological support. The presence of a readily accessible pulmonary rehabilitation program is a strong indicator of a commitment to comprehensive COPD care.

Another factor to consider is the availability of respiratory therapists. Respiratory therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the care of patients with breathing problems. They play a critical role in the management of COPD, providing education, administering medications, and assisting with breathing exercises. The presence of respiratory therapists in local practices or hospitals is a positive sign.

The cost of care is another important consideration. Investigating the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who struggle to afford their medications and other healthcare expenses is crucial. Financial barriers can significantly impede access to care and negatively impact a patient's ability to manage their COPD effectively.

Finally, the overall quality of care can be assessed by examining patient outcomes. This involves researching data on hospital readmission rates for COPD exacerbations, the use of appropriate medications, and patient satisfaction scores. While obtaining this data can be challenging, it provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the local healthcare system in managing COPD.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD score for Gilbertsville, PA (19525) requires a thorough evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the types of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, access to pulmonary rehabilitation, and the overall cost of care. The presence of standout practices and a commitment to patient education and proactive disease management are key indicators of a strong COPD care landscape.

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