36256, Daviston, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 36256, Daviston, Alabama is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.83 percent of the residents in 36256 has some form of health insurance. 36.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.11 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 36256 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 386 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36256. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 261 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 75 health care providers accessible to residents in 36256, Daviston, Alabama.

**COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care and COPD Management in Daviston, AL (ZIP Code 36256)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management within the Daviston, Alabama area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 36256. The evaluation considers factors critical to effective COPD care, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of supporting mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available to patients managing COPD within this specific geographic area.

The primary challenge in Daviston, AL, and indeed many rural communities, is likely the limited availability of primary care physicians. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, the national average is approximately 1:600, meaning one physician for every 600 patients. In a rural area like Daviston, this ratio is potentially higher, indicating a possible shortage of readily accessible primary care. Patients with COPD, a chronic condition requiring frequent monitoring and management, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of physician shortages. Delays in appointments, increased travel times, and difficulty accessing specialized care can negatively impact disease control and quality of life.

Examining individual practices within the ZIP code is vital. Are there established primary care clinics? What is the size of these practices? Larger practices may have more resources, including a broader range of specialists, diagnostic equipment, and support staff, such as respiratory therapists and certified diabetes educators. These resources are particularly beneficial for COPD patients, who often require comprehensive care plans. A practice with a dedicated COPD management program, including regular pulmonary function tests, medication management, and patient education, would score favorably. It is important to assess the level of experience of the physicians in managing COPD. Are they board-certified in internal medicine or family medicine with a strong background in pulmonary medicine?

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and enabling more frequent check-ins. For COPD patients, telemedicine can be used for medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms for virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring (e.g., using wearable devices to track oxygen saturation levels), and virtual support groups would be considered to have a higher score. The ease of use of these platforms for both patients and physicians is also a key consideration.

Mental health is a frequently overlooked but essential component of COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, either within the primary care practice or through referrals to external providers, is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are better equipped to support the holistic needs of COPD patients. The integration of mental health screening tools into routine check-ups is another positive indicator.

The presence of respiratory therapists within the primary care setting or through close partnerships is also beneficial. Respiratory therapists are trained to assess lung function, provide breathing exercises, and educate patients on proper inhaler techniques and other COPD management strategies. Their expertise can greatly improve the quality of care for COPD patients. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, is also a positive factor.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and access to smoking cessation programs, contributes to a higher COPD score. These resources empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition and can significantly improve their outcomes. The degree to which primary care practices collaborate with these community resources is also important.

In conclusion, evaluating the COPD score for doctors in ZIP code 36256 requires a multi-faceted approach. The availability of primary care physicians, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and community support systems all play a crucial role in determining the quality of care available to COPD patients. The analysis reveals that the primary care landscape in Daviston, AL, likely faces challenges related to physician shortages and the need to enhance access to specialized services and mental health support. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of community resources can help mitigate these challenges and improve patient outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the primary care landscape in Daviston, AL, and surrounding areas, including the locations of practices, physician density, and access to specialized services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas with the greatest need.