35091, Kimberly, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 35091, Kimberly, Alabama is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.78 percent of the residents in 35091 has some form of health insurance. 19.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.44 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 35091 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 922 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35091. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 353 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,552 health care providers accessible to residents in 35091, Kimberly, Alabama.

## COPD Score Analysis: Kimberly, Alabama (ZIP Code 35091)

This analysis assesses the quality of COPD care and primary care accessibility within Kimberly, Alabama (ZIP Code 35091). The evaluation considers factors impacting COPD management, including physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced perspective on the healthcare landscape for individuals managing COPD in this specific geographical area.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests upon accessible and knowledgeable primary care physicians. In Kimberly, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall density of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is a determining factor. A higher ratio suggests a greater likelihood of timely appointments, consistent care, and a stronger patient-physician relationship – all vital for successful COPD treatment. This assessment will consider the availability of physicians accepting new patients, which is a crucial element of access.

The nature of primary care practices within Kimberly significantly influences the quality of COPD care. Large, multi-specialty groups may offer advantages such as access to respiratory therapists, pulmonary specialists, and comprehensive diagnostic equipment. Conversely, smaller practices may foster a more personalized approach, allowing for greater continuity of care. This analysis will examine the prevalence of both types of practices, assessing their respective strengths and weaknesses in the context of COPD management. The presence of certified COPD educators within a practice is a particularly beneficial factor.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a significant tool in managing chronic respiratory conditions. In the context of COPD, telemedicine facilitates remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and virtual consultations. This is especially crucial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in areas with limited access to in-person care. The analysis will investigate the extent of telemedicine integration among Kimberly’s primary care providers, evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring of vital signs) and the accessibility of these services for COPD patients.

Mental health is inextricably linked to COPD management. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with its impact on physical function and quality of life, can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. This analysis will assess the proximity and accessibility of mental health services within Kimberly, focusing on their integration with primary care practices and their ability to address the specific needs of COPD patients.

Specific practices within Kimberly warrant closer examination. While a comprehensive list is beyond the scope of this analysis, certain practices may stand out due to their commitment to COPD care. Factors like the presence of dedicated respiratory clinics, participation in COPD-specific research, and patient testimonials will be considered. Identifying these standout practices can provide valuable guidance for individuals seeking the best possible care. This involves looking at online reviews and patient feedback, focusing on experiences related to COPD management.

The availability of pulmonary specialists in the vicinity is another important factor. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of COPD management, access to specialists is essential for complex cases or when disease progression necessitates advanced interventions. This analysis will consider the proximity of pulmonary specialists to Kimberly, evaluating the ease of referral and the efficiency of collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists.

The accessibility of respiratory therapy services is also critical. Respiratory therapists play a vital role in educating patients about breathing techniques, medication management, and lifestyle modifications. The analysis will evaluate the availability of respiratory therapy services within Kimberly, considering factors like the presence of certified respiratory therapists within primary care practices or the availability of outpatient respiratory therapy centers.

The overall COPD Score for Kimberly, Alabama (35091) is a composite of these various factors. The score reflects the accessibility of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the characteristics of local practices. A higher score indicates a more favorable healthcare environment for individuals managing COPD. The score will be interpreted in the context of regional and national benchmarks to provide a meaningful assessment.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education materials and support groups. These resources empower patients to actively participate in their care, improving adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life. The analysis will evaluate the availability of educational materials, support groups, and other patient-centered resources within Kimberly.

The assessment will consider the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) within primary care practices. EHRs facilitate communication between healthcare providers, improve medication management, and streamline the care coordination process. The analysis will evaluate the extent of EHR adoption within Kimberly’s primary care practices and assess the impact of EHRs on COPD care.

Finally, the analysis will acknowledge the limitations of this assessment. The data is based on publicly available information and may not fully capture the nuances of individual practices. The analysis will provide a starting point for individuals seeking COPD care in Kimberly, encouraging them to conduct their own research and consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions.

For a more detailed, visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Kimberly, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and the proximity of specialized resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools provide a powerful way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.