29591, Scranton, South Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 29591, Scranton, South Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.30 percent of the residents in 29591 has some form of health insurance. 41.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.57 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 29591 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29591. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 725 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,774 health care providers accessible to residents in 29591, Scranton, South Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians in ZIP Code 29591 and Primary Care in Scranton

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in two distinct geographic areas: ZIP Code 29591, representing a specific locale, and Scranton, Pennsylvania, representing a broader urban environment. The goal is to provide a COPD Score assessment, focusing on key factors impacting COPD patient care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources.

**ZIP Code 29591: A Microcosm of Rural Healthcare Challenges**

Assessing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 29591 necessitates a granular approach, given the potential for rural healthcare disparities. A critical starting point is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, immediately signals a potential barrier to timely diagnosis, regular monitoring, and effective COPD management. Research would be needed to ascertain the precise number of primary care physicians practicing within this ZIP Code and the estimated patient population. Publicly available databases like the US Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide valuable data.

Beyond physician density, the quality of available practices is paramount. This involves evaluating factors such as the availability of specialized equipment, like spirometry machines for lung function testing, and the implementation of evidence-based COPD management protocols. Does the practice offer smoking cessation programs, a crucial component of COPD care? Are there dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses trained in COPD management? Patient reviews and online ratings, while not definitive, can offer insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. Does any practice in 29591 offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even pulmonary rehabilitation? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for routine care. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the ZIP Code is a critical factor determining the feasibility of telemedicine implementation.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health resources is vital for COPD patients. COPD can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Does the practice have access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals? Are there support groups or educational programs addressing the psychological challenges of living with COPD? The integration of mental health services into primary care is a key indicator of a comprehensive and patient-centered approach.

**Scranton: Navigating a City's Healthcare Network**

Scranton, as a larger urban center, presents a different healthcare landscape. While the physician-to-patient ratio may be more favorable than in a rural setting, other factors come into play. The sheer number of primary care practices can create a challenge for patients seeking the best fit. Research should identify the key primary care providers in Scranton, their specialties, and their patient demographics.

The quality of care varies widely among practices. Some practices may have achieved recognition for their excellence in COPD management, perhaps through accreditation programs or by implementing innovative care models. Identifying these standout practices is crucial. This might involve examining their patient outcomes, their use of technology, and their commitment to patient education.

Telemedicine adoption in Scranton may be more prevalent than in rural areas, but its extent needs to be assessed. Does the practice offer virtual visits, remote patient monitoring, or other telehealth services? The availability of these services can significantly improve patient convenience and access to care.

Mental health resources are equally important in Scranton. The analysis should determine the availability of mental health professionals within primary care practices or through referral networks. Are there specialized programs or support groups for COPD patients dealing with mental health challenges? The integration of mental health services into primary care is a key indicator of a comprehensive and patient-centered approach.

**Analyzing the COPD Score**

A comprehensive COPD Score would involve assigning numerical values to each of the factors discussed above. The scoring system should be based on objective data, such as physician-to-patient ratios, and subjective data, such as patient reviews. The score would then be calculated for each location, providing a comparative assessment of the availability and quality of COPD care.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

Understanding the healthcare landscape for COPD patients requires a detailed, data-driven approach. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services in ZIP Code 29591 and Scranton, Pennsylvania. By assessing physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can identify areas of strength and weakness and ultimately improve the care provided to COPD patients.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in these areas and gain deeper insights into the factors affecting COPD care? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to create interactive visualizations of healthcare data, enabling you to identify trends, pinpoint areas of need, and make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.