35125, Pell City, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 35125, Pell City, Alabama is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.89 percent of the residents in 35125 has some form of health insurance. 38.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.78 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 35125 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,523 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35125. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,880 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 988 health care providers accessible to residents in 35125, Pell City, Alabama.

## COPD Score Analysis: Pell City, AL (ZIP Code 35125)

This analysis provides a COPD Score evaluation for primary care physicians and associated resources within Pell City, Alabama, specifically focusing on ZIP Code 35125. The goal is to assess the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial elements in effective COPD management.

Pell City, a city in St. Clair County, faces challenges common to many rural areas, including potential limitations in healthcare access. COPD, a progressive lung disease, demands consistent medical attention, making the availability of qualified primary care providers a critical factor. The analysis will delve into the current landscape, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system for COPD patients.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. Determining the exact ratio for primary care physicians in ZIP Code 35125 requires data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services or the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners. A low ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access. However, this is just the beginning. We need to consider the *type* of physician. Are there enough board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized COPD training? Without this granular information, a true assessment of the ratio's impact on COPD care is incomplete.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of local practices are important. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patient needs? The presence of on-site respiratory therapists, crucial for COPD management, is a significant advantage. Do practices employ certified diabetes educators, as COPD often co-exists with diabetes? The availability of these resources directly impacts the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key aspect of modern COPD care. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of patients' conditions. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, offering virtual check-ups, and remote patient monitoring systems, demonstrate a commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet critically important. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 35125 requires a deeper dive. We need to look for practices that excel in several key areas. These include: a high patient satisfaction rating, evidence-based COPD management protocols, a robust telemedicine program, and strong integration of mental health services. These practices would be considered exemplary in providing comprehensive COPD care.

The availability of primary care in Pell City, specifically within the 35125 ZIP code, is impacted by several factors. The geographic distribution of physicians is important. Are physicians concentrated in one area, potentially creating access issues for patients in other parts of the ZIP code? Transportation options also play a role. Limited public transportation or long distances to appointments can create barriers to care. Socioeconomic factors, such as insurance coverage and income levels, also influence access.

The analysis should also investigate the presence of community resources. Are there support groups for COPD patients in the area? Are there educational programs about COPD management available? The presence of these resources can empower patients to take an active role in their care.

Finally, assessing the overall COPD Score requires a synthesis of all these factors. The score would reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of COPD care available in Pell City. The score will be a relative measure, comparing the local situation to benchmarks and best practices in COPD management.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Pell City reveals a complex picture. While the presence of physicians is a starting point, the quality of care depends on a multitude of factors. The analysis needs to go beyond simple physician-to-patient ratios, considering the practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and community resources. Only then can a true COPD Score be determined.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current situation. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular reassessments are necessary to track changes in physician availability, practice innovations, and the integration of new technologies. This ongoing monitoring ensures that COPD patients in Pell City receive the best possible care.

The insights gained from this analysis can be used to identify areas for improvement. Healthcare providers can use the information to enhance their services, address gaps in care, and improve patient outcomes. Policymakers can use the data to develop strategies to improve healthcare access and quality.

For a comprehensive, interactive map visualizing physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape in Pell City and beyond. They enable you to visualize the data, identify trends, and make informed decisions about your healthcare.