19526, Hamburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 19526, Hamburg, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.49 percent of the residents in 19526 has some form of health insurance. 31.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.26 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 19526 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,315 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19526. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,220 health care providers accessible to residents in 19526, Hamburg, Pennsylvania.

## COPD Score Analysis: Hamburg, PA (ZIP Code 19526)

Analyzing the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Hamburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19526) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," considers key factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician access, practice characteristics, technological integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any COPD Score rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Hamburg, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, access to PCPs can be a challenge in rural areas. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians relative to the population, necessitates longer wait times for appointments and potentially limits the ability of patients to establish consistent relationships with their doctors. This, in turn, can negatively impact disease management and patient adherence to treatment plans.

The specific practices operating within the 19526 ZIP code warrant closer examination. Are there any standout practices known for their expertise in respiratory care? Do they have dedicated pulmonologists or respiratory therapists on staff? Do they participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD? Identifying practices with a demonstrable commitment to respiratory health is crucial. These practices often implement best practices, such as comprehensive pulmonary function testing, patient education programs, and smoking cessation counseling. Their presence elevates the overall COPD Score for the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine allows for virtual check-ups, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. Does Hamburg have practices that offer telemedicine services? Are these services accessible to all patients, regardless of their insurance coverage or technological proficiency? Widespread telemedicine adoption can improve access to care, reduce the burden on patients, and facilitate early intervention.

Beyond the purely medical aspects of COPD, the availability of mental health resources is also vital. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who are knowledgeable about COPD and its psychological effects is crucial. Are there local mental health providers who specialize in working with patients with chronic respiratory illnesses? Are these services readily accessible and affordable? Integrating mental health support into COPD care is essential for holistic patient management.

The COPD Score also considers the degree of collaboration among healthcare providers. Do PCPs, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and mental health professionals work together effectively? Is there a system for seamless communication and information sharing? Coordinated care ensures that patients receive comprehensive and integrated services, leading to better outcomes.

Further, the score considers the availability of support groups and educational resources. COPD patients often benefit from connecting with others who understand their challenges. Are there local support groups where patients can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and access peer support? Educational programs that teach patients about their condition, medications, and self-management techniques are also invaluable. The presence of these resources indicates a commitment to empowering patients to take an active role in their care.

The quality of local hospitals and their respiratory care units is another critical element. Does the local hospital have a dedicated respiratory unit equipped with state-of-the-art technology? Are there experienced respiratory therapists available around the clock? The ability to provide prompt and effective care during exacerbations is crucial for preventing hospitalizations and improving patient outcomes.

Finally, the COPD Score considers the overall health of the community. Factors such as air quality, smoking rates, and access to healthy food options can all impact COPD prevalence and severity. A community that prioritizes public health and wellness will naturally have a higher COPD Score.

In summary, determining a COPD Score for Hamburg, PA (19526) requires a detailed investigation of several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, coordinated care, support groups, hospital quality, and community health indicators all contribute to the overall score. While a precise numerical score requires data collection and analysis, the framework outlined here provides a foundation for evaluating the quality and accessibility of COPD care in Hamburg. This framework helps identify areas for improvement and promotes better outcomes for patients living with this debilitating disease.

This analysis is intended to provide a general overview and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. For specific information about COPD care in Hamburg, PA, consult with your healthcare provider.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hamburg, PA (19526) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing data and identifying patterns.