36477, Samson, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 36477, Samson, Alabama is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.96 percent of the residents in 36477 has some form of health insurance. 46.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.83 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 36477 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 678 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36477. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 850 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 156 health care providers accessible to residents in 36477, Samson, Alabama.

## COPD Score Analysis: Samson, Alabama (ZIP Code 36477)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific focus on resources relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within the ZIP code 36477, encompassing the town of Samson, Alabama. The goal is to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, considering factors critical for effective COPD care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support. This score, while subjective, aims to offer a practical understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals living with COPD or at risk of developing the condition.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in accessible and responsive primary care. In Samson, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and other publicly available sources, when combined, allow for an estimation. Due to the rural nature of Samson, it is highly probable that the physician-to-patient ratio presents a challenge. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. This is a significant factor impacting the COPD Score.

The presence of specialized practices within the area is another important consideration. While Samson is a small town, the proximity to larger cities like Dothan, Alabama, may offer some degree of specialized care. The presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and certified COPD educators in nearby locations can significantly enhance the quality of care available to residents of Samson. The absence of these specialists directly within the town, however, will negatively impact the COPD Score, as it increases the burden of travel for patients needing specialized services.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. The availability of telemedicine services within the primary care practices in Samson can significantly improve the COPD Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more frequent monitoring of patients’ conditions, offer timely interventions, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be particularly challenging for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but their importance cannot be overstated. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care setting or through referral networks, is crucial. A robust mental health support system will positively influence the COPD Score, as it demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care.

Assessing the specific practices within ZIP code 36477 requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. This includes evaluating the qualifications of the physicians, the services offered, and the patient reviews. Identifying standout practices that prioritize COPD management, offer comprehensive care, and actively utilize telemedicine will be key to raising the COPD Score. The presence of patient education programs, support groups, and readily available resources further enhances the quality of care.

The COPD Score is ultimately a reflection of the overall healthcare ecosystem in Samson. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that can be improved through strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, the recruitment of qualified medical professionals, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine. The score is also influenced by community outreach programs, patient education initiatives, and the integration of mental health services into primary care.

The evaluation of specific practices requires gathering information from various sources. These sources include publicly available databases, online physician directories, and patient reviews. This information helps to determine the level of specialization, the availability of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health support. The quality of care provided by each practice is then evaluated based on these factors.

The rural nature of Samson presents unique challenges. The limited number of healthcare providers, the potential for long travel distances, and the economic constraints of the community all impact the COPD Score. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. This collaborative approach is essential for improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of Samson.

The COPD Score for Samson, Alabama, ZIP code 36477, is likely to be negatively impacted by the rural nature of the area. The limited physician-to-patient ratio, the potential lack of specialized services, and the need for improved telemedicine adoption will all lower the score. However, the score can be improved through strategic interventions, such as recruiting healthcare professionals, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health services into primary care.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Samson and to visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore interactive maps. These maps can provide a detailed overview of physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of essential services.

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