35147, Sterrett, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.85 percent of the residents in 35147 has some form of health insurance. 28.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.16 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 35147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,565 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 721 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,964 health care providers accessible to residents in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama.

## COPD Score Analysis: Sterrett, AL (ZIP Code 35147)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care resources for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within the Sterrett, Alabama ZIP code of 35147. The evaluation considers factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all vital for holistic patient care.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in accessible primary care. In Sterrett, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Analyzing publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Alabama Department of Public Health is essential. This data reveals the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population. A favorable ratio, indicating a higher density of PCPs per capita, suggests greater ease of access to care, which is particularly important for COPD patients who require regular check-ups, medication management, and pulmonary function testing. A low ratio, conversely, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying critical interventions and worsening COPD symptoms.

Identifying standout practices within the 35147 ZIP code is paramount. This involves evaluating practices based on several key metrics. First, the practices’ commitment to COPD-specific care is assessed. This includes the availability of spirometry testing (a crucial diagnostic tool), access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Second, patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews offer insights into the quality of patient experience, including factors like appointment scheduling, wait times, and the overall demeanor of the staff. Practices that consistently receive high marks in these areas are considered exemplary. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient data seamlessly with specialists are also vital indicators of a modern and efficient practice.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in COPD care. Telemedicine offers several advantages, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. It allows for remote consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve patient access to care, reduce the burden of travel, and facilitate timely interventions. The analysis will investigate the availability of telemedicine services within the 35147 ZIP code, including the types of services offered, the platforms used, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine are considered to be more patient-centric and adaptable to the evolving healthcare landscape.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health is crucial in COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is essential. This analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, in the Sterrett area. It will also assess the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these resources are better equipped to provide comprehensive care for COPD patients.

Furthermore, an assessment of the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is essential. These programs, designed to improve lung function, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life, are a cornerstone of COPD management. The analysis will identify the presence of pulmonary rehabilitation programs within the 35147 ZIP code and evaluate their accessibility, cost, and the qualifications of the staff. The availability of these programs directly impacts the ability of COPD patients to manage their symptoms and maintain their independence.

The analysis of the 35147 ZIP code will also consider the presence of support groups and educational resources for COPD patients. These resources provide patients with valuable information, emotional support, and opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges. The analysis will identify the availability of support groups, educational materials, and community outreach programs related to COPD management. Practices that actively promote these resources are demonstrating a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for primary care availability in Sterrett, AL (ZIP Code 35147) will be determined by weighing these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs will all contribute to the final score. A higher score will indicate a greater availability of resources and a higher quality of care for COPD patients. This analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of primary care resources for COPD patients in Sterrett, Alabama, highlighting areas of strength and identifying areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis is a starting point. To gain a deeper, more visually intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sterrett and surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of physicians, the location of support services, and the accessibility of care, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer interactive visualizations that can provide valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.