35764, Paint Rock, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 35764, Paint Rock, Alabama is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.18 percent of the residents in 35764 has some form of health insurance. 69.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.17 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 35764 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 43 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35764. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 280 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,943 health care providers accessible to residents in 35764, Paint Rock, Alabama.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35764 and Primary Care Availability in Paint Rock

Analyzing the COPD landscape in Paint Rock, Alabama, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians within ZIP code 35764, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," considers key factors impacting patient access to care, the quality of that care, and the resources available to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform both patient choices and healthcare provider strategies.

The first critical component of the COPD Score is physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, can significantly hinder access to timely appointments and ongoing care, critical for COPD management. Data from publicly available sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, must be combined to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 35764. This involves identifying the number of actively practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the age distribution of the population, as COPD prevalence increases with age. A higher proportion of elderly residents necessitates a higher physician density to adequately address the healthcare needs of the community.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. The COPD Score must evaluate the practices’ adherence to established COPD management guidelines. This includes assessing the availability of pulmonary function testing (spirometry), a crucial diagnostic tool for COPD. It also involves evaluating the practices' protocols for regular follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Information on these aspects can be gathered through practice websites, patient reviews (while acknowledging their inherent limitations), and potentially, through direct communication with the practices themselves. Practices demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based care will receive higher scores.

Identifying standout practices is a key element of the COPD Score. Practices that excel in COPD management often have dedicated resources, such as respiratory therapists or specialized nurses, to assist patients. They might also participate in quality improvement initiatives or have strong relationships with pulmonologists for referrals and collaborative care. These practices would be highlighted as models of excellence, providing valuable information for patients seeking the best possible care. Their success stories can also serve as a benchmark for other practices in the area.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor in the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for COPD patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or living in rural areas. Virtual consultations can facilitate regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The analysis must assess the availability of telemedicine services among the PCPs in 35764, including the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients. Practices actively embracing telemedicine will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved care delivery.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but they are critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score must evaluate the availability of mental health support services within the practices and the broader community. This includes assessing whether PCPs screen for mental health conditions, provide referrals to mental health professionals, and offer access to support groups or counseling services. Practices that integrate mental health support into their COPD management programs will be recognized for their holistic approach to patient care.

Primary care availability in Paint Rock, specifically within the context of 35764, is influenced by factors beyond the number of physicians. The geographic distribution of practices within the ZIP code is important. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving other parts of the community underserved? The availability of transportation for patients, particularly those with COPD who may experience shortness of breath, is another critical consideration. The analysis must consider the accessibility of practices via public transportation or other means.

Moreover, the insurance landscape plays a significant role. The COPD Score must consider the acceptance of various insurance plans by the PCPs in 35764. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensure greater access to care for a broader segment of the population. This is particularly important in a rural area where a significant portion of the population may rely on public insurance programs.

Finally, the COPD Score should acknowledge the limitations of the data. Publicly available information may not always be complete or up-to-date. Patient reviews, while providing valuable insights, are subjective and may not reflect the experiences of all patients. Therefore, the analysis should be presented with appropriate caveats, recognizing the need for ongoing monitoring and updates as new information becomes available. The score itself is a snapshot in time, reflecting the current state of healthcare resources and their impact on COPD patients in 35764.

In conclusion, the "COPD Score" for doctors in ZIP code 35764 and primary care availability in Paint Rock is a complex assessment. It necessitates a thorough evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, adherence to COPD management guidelines, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other factors impacting patient access and quality of care. This analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this area. For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including practice locations, physician density, and other relevant data points, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.