35765, Pisgah, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 35765, Pisgah, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.30 percent of the residents in 35765 has some form of health insurance. 38.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.60 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 35765 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,131 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35765. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 919 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 648 health care providers accessible to residents in 35765, Pisgah, Alabama.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35765 and Primary Care in Pisgah

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and assessing the resources dedicated to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management in Pisgah, Alabama (ZIP Code 35765) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the physician landscape, focusing on the quality and accessibility of care, particularly for patients managing COPD. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current situation and highlight areas for improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 35765 serves as a crucial starting point. A low ratio can indicate limited access to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management of chronic conditions like COPD, and increased hospitalizations. Conversely, a higher ratio, while seemingly positive, doesn’t guarantee quality. The expertise of the physicians, their familiarity with COPD management guidelines, and their access to specialized resources are equally important. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide a general estimate of the physician-to-population ratio. However, this data often doesn’t differentiate between primary care physicians and specialists, or account for factors like physician age, experience, and practice size.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices likely demonstrate a commitment to high-quality COPD care. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized training in respiratory medicine, the availability of spirometry testing (a critical diagnostic tool for COPD), and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in COPD research or quality improvement initiatives, such as the COPD Foundation’s COPD Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) program, often demonstrate a higher level of commitment to patient care. Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their integration with other healthcare providers can streamline care coordination and improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing COPD care. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural areas like Pisgah, allowing patients to access consultations with specialists, receive remote monitoring, and participate in virtual pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as video conferencing and remote patient monitoring devices, are better positioned to provide accessible and timely care. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like reliable internet access, patient digital literacy, and the availability of trained personnel to support the technology.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are essential. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, who can provide counseling, medication management, and support groups. The availability of these resources, and their integration with primary care, can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Specific practices within 35765 would need individual evaluation to determine their COPD Score. This would involve gathering information on the factors mentioned above, including physician qualifications, the availability of diagnostic and treatment resources, telemedicine adoption, and mental health services. Publicly available data, such as practice websites, online reviews, and information from insurance providers, can provide some insights. However, a comprehensive assessment would require direct communication with the practices and a review of their patient care protocols.

Primary care availability in Pisgah also needs assessment. This involves determining the number of primary care physicians serving the community, their geographic distribution, and their acceptance of new patients. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to increased wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative care, and a greater reliance on emergency room visits. Assessing the availability of primary care requires considering the population size, the prevalence of chronic diseases like COPD, and the existing healthcare infrastructure.

The COPD Score analysis should also consider the overall healthcare environment in Pisgah. This includes the availability of hospital services, the presence of respiratory therapists, and the accessibility of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. A well-coordinated healthcare system, with strong communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers, is crucial for effective COPD management. The availability of community resources, such as support groups and educational programs, can also play a significant role in improving patient outcomes.

The analysis of the COPD Score for doctors in 35765 and primary care availability in Pisgah necessitates a detailed examination of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all crucial components. The evaluation should also consider the overall healthcare environment and the availability of community resources. This comprehensive approach will provide a clearer picture of the current state of COPD care and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pisgah, including physician locations, access to resources, and potential disparities, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and the accessibility of care for patients with COPD.