35772, Stevenson, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 35772, Stevenson, Alabama is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.99 percent of the residents in 35772 has some form of health insurance. 43.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.82 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 35772 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35772. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 834 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 516 health care providers accessible to residents in 35772, Stevenson, Alabama.

## COPD Score Analysis: Stevenson, Alabama (ZIP Code 35772)

The following analysis assesses the landscape of primary care and COPD management within Stevenson, Alabama (ZIP Code 35772), focusing on factors relevant to patient access and quality of care. This evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health services, culminating in a COPD Score assessment.

Stevenson, a small town nestled in Jackson County, Alabama, presents a unique healthcare environment. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of COPD management success. Patients with COPD require regular monitoring, medication adjustments, and often, education on disease management. Limited access to primary care can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased hospitalizations, ultimately impacting the COPD Score.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Stevenson is a crucial indicator. While specific, up-to-the-minute ratios are difficult to obtain definitively without real-time data, publicly available resources and anecdotal evidence suggest a potential challenge. Smaller towns often face difficulties attracting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to a higher patient-to-physician ratio than in more populated areas. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and a less comprehensive approach to care. The COPD Score is directly affected by this.

Identifying standout practices within Stevenson is vital. These practices often serve as models for quality care. A practice demonstrating a commitment to COPD management might employ certified respiratory therapists, offer pulmonary function testing on-site, and actively participate in patient education programs. Their approach to chronic disease management, including COPD, would likely involve a multidisciplinary team, incorporating nurses, medical assistants, and potentially, a social worker. The presence of such a practice would positively influence the overall COPD Score for the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. For COPD patients, telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations with physicians, and access to educational resources. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine can enhance patient convenience, reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, and improve medication adherence, all of which contribute to a better COPD Score. The extent of telemedicine adoption in Stevenson is a key element.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as crucial in managing chronic conditions like COPD. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that offer or connect patients with mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, demonstrate a more holistic approach to care. This integration can improve patient outcomes, enhance adherence to treatment plans, and ultimately, positively influence the COPD Score. The presence of these resources is important.

Assessing the COPD Score involves a multifaceted approach. It requires evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, the characteristics of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. A higher COPD Score would indicate a more favorable healthcare environment for COPD patients, with better access to care, comprehensive treatment options, and support services. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, such as increasing physician availability, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health resources.

Specific practices in Stevenson would need to be assessed individually to determine their contributions to the overall COPD Score. Factors to consider include the training and expertise of the physicians, the availability of specialized equipment, the use of electronic health records, and the practice's commitment to patient education. The practice's approach to medication management, including adherence support and medication reconciliation, is also critical.

The presence of any pulmonary rehabilitation programs in the area is another important element. These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support to help COPD patients improve their lung function, manage their symptoms, and enhance their quality of life. The availability of such programs would significantly improve the COPD Score.

Furthermore, the practice's approach to patient education is crucial. COPD patients need to understand their disease, the medications they are taking, and the lifestyle modifications they can make to manage their symptoms. Practices that offer patient education materials, provide individual counseling, and facilitate support groups are better equipped to empower patients to take an active role in their care. This patient-centered approach is a key component of a high COPD Score.

The analysis also considers the accessibility of the healthcare facilities. Are the facilities easily accessible by public transportation? Are they wheelchair accessible? These factors can impact the ability of patients with COPD to access the care they need. The overall accessibility of the healthcare system is a contributing factor to the COPD Score.

Finally, the overall coordination of care within the healthcare system is important. Does the practice coordinate care with specialists, such as pulmonologists and cardiologists? Does it have systems in place to ensure that patients receive timely referrals and follow-up care? Effective care coordination can improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall COPD Score.

In conclusion, evaluating the COPD Score for Stevenson, Alabama (ZIP Code 35772) requires a thorough assessment of multiple factors. This includes physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource integration, and overall care coordination. While a definitive COPD Score requires a comprehensive data analysis, the factors discussed provide a framework for understanding the healthcare environment and identifying areas for improvement.

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources in Stevenson and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. They can provide a valuable spatial perspective on the healthcare landscape, helping you gain a deeper understanding of access to care and other factors influencing the COPD Score.