36471, Peterman, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 36471, Peterman, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.00 percent of the residents in 36471 has some form of health insurance. 55.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.46 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 36471 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36471. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 148 health care providers accessible to residents in 36471, Peterman, Alabama.

The following analysis provides a COPD Score assessment for primary care resources in and around ZIP Code 36471, specifically focusing on the availability of care in Peterman, Alabama. This score considers several factors crucial for COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all vital for patients managing this chronic respiratory illness.

Peterman, a small community within Monroe County, Alabama, faces unique healthcare challenges. Rural areas often grapple with limited access to specialized medical care, and this is a significant consideration when assessing COPD care. The COPD Score attempts to quantify these challenges and opportunities.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. In a region like Peterman, the number of primary care physicians per capita directly impacts the ease with which patients can secure appointments and receive regular check-ups, critical for COPD management. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per resident, generally translates to longer wait times and reduced access. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Peterman requires detailed data analysis, but the rural nature of the area suggests this ratio may be less favorable compared to urban centers. This would negatively influence the COPD Score.

The presence of primary care practices within a reasonable distance of Peterman is also crucial. Are there established clinics offering comprehensive care, including pulmonary function testing, medication management, and patient education? The COPD Score assesses the availability and accessibility of these services. A lack of nearby practices, or practices with limited capacity, would significantly lower the score.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas to consult with specialists, receive remote monitoring, and participate in virtual support groups. The COPD Score evaluates the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine technologies. Practices embracing telemedicine would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to improving patient access and convenience.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but they are essential. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score considers the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and psychiatric support, accessible to patients in the area. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their COPD care protocols would contribute positively to the score.

Standout practices, if any, within the region are also assessed. These are practices that have demonstrated a commitment to providing high-quality COPD care. This might include practices with specialized respiratory therapists, comprehensive patient education programs, or active participation in COPD research or clinical trials. Identifying and highlighting these practices can help patients make informed decisions about their care. This component of the COPD Score aims to recognize and reward excellence in COPD management.

Specifics on individual practices in and around 36471 would require a detailed investigation. However, we can discuss some general possibilities. A practice with a board-certified pulmonologist on staff would score highly, as would one offering on-site pulmonary rehabilitation. Conversely, a practice with a limited number of providers, long wait times, and no telemedicine capabilities would likely receive a lower score.

The COPD Score would also consider the availability of support groups and educational resources. COPD patients benefit from peer support and access to information about their condition. Practices that facilitate these resources, whether through in-person meetings or online platforms, would contribute positively to the overall score.

Access to prescription medications is another important factor. The COPD Score considers the proximity of pharmacies and the ease with which patients can obtain their necessary medications. This includes assessing the availability of both generic and brand-name medications, as well as any assistance programs that may be available to help patients afford their prescriptions.

The overall COPD Score for primary care availability in Peterman and the surrounding area is likely to be moderate, considering the rural nature of the region. While some practices may offer excellent care, the limitations in physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized services, and the adoption of telemedicine may present challenges. However, the score can be improved through strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services.

The COPD Score is not just a numerical ranking; it is a tool to identify areas for improvement and guide healthcare providers in their efforts to provide the best possible care for COPD patients. It highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach, encompassing access to physicians, specialized services, mental health support, and telemedicine.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of primary care resources in ZIP Code 36471 and the surrounding areas, including specific practice locations, physician specialties, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support services, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps provide detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, allowing you to explore the landscape of care in the area and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.