36035, Goshen, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 36035, Goshen, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.75 percent of the residents in 36035 has some form of health insurance. 38.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.15 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 36035 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 602 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36035. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 361 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 327 health care providers accessible to residents in 36035, Goshen, Alabama.

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Goshen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36035). This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements for effective COPD management.

Goshen, Alabama, a rural community, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The relatively low population density can translate to a limited number of primary care physicians. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date, granular data. Publicly available resources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide population estimates, while state medical boards and professional organizations may offer physician counts. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate a significant hurdle for COPD patients seeking timely appointments and ongoing care.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 36035 requires a multifaceted approach. This involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the integration of COPD-specific management protocols. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, pulmonary rehabilitation, and coordinated care are particularly valuable for COPD patients. Information on practice quality can be found through online review platforms (like Healthgrades or Zocdoc), or through referrals from local hospitals or patient advocacy groups.

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial factor in assessing the accessibility of care in a rural setting. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online education, can help bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialized care. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, are better equipped to support COPD patients. Information on telemedicine adoption rates can be sourced from practice websites, local healthcare networks, and state medical associations.

Mental health is inextricably linked to COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with breathing difficulties and lifestyle limitations, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is critical. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health resources requires examining practice websites, patient brochures, and potentially, contacting the practices directly.

The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is another important consideration. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a structured program that includes exercise training, education, and support to help people with COPD improve their quality of life. Practices that offer or have access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs are essential for comprehensive COPD management. Information on pulmonary rehabilitation programs can be found through local hospitals, pulmonary specialists, and patient advocacy groups.

Furthermore, the ability of primary care physicians to coordinate care with specialists, such as pulmonologists, is paramount. Strong referral networks and clear communication protocols ensure that COPD patients receive the specialized care they need. Assessing care coordination requires understanding the referral patterns of local practices and the availability of pulmonologists in the surrounding areas.

The overall quality of care for COPD patients in Goshen, Alabama, is likely influenced by several factors. The availability of resources, the adoption of best practices, and the integration of mental health services are key determinants. The degree to which these elements are present within the primary care setting ultimately dictates the accessibility and effectiveness of care for COPD patients.

Data on physician specialties, such as pulmonologists, within the ZIP code or nearby areas, is essential. The presence of specialists within a reasonable travel distance can significantly impact the care of COPD patients. This information can be obtained from online physician directories, hospital websites, and insurance provider databases.

Another factor to consider is the availability of respiratory therapists. Respiratory therapists play a vital role in the management of COPD, providing education, performing pulmonary function tests, and assisting with breathing treatments. The presence of respiratory therapists within the primary care practice or in the local hospital system can enhance the quality of care for COPD patients.

The utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a significant factor. EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate communication between providers, and provide a centralized repository of patient information. Practices that utilize EHRs are better equipped to manage COPD patients effectively.

The assessment of the overall quality of care also involves an evaluation of patient outcomes. While obtaining specific outcome data can be challenging, examining data on hospital readmission rates, emergency room visits, and patient satisfaction can provide valuable insights. Public health agencies and healthcare quality organizations may provide this data.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of COPD care in Goshen, Alabama, requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the presence of pulmonary rehabilitation programs are all crucial elements.

For a visual representation of healthcare access, physician density, and the location of relevant resources in Goshen, Alabama, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help visualize data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.