36790, Stanton, Alabama COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 36790, Stanton, Alabama is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.01 percent of the residents in 36790 has some form of health insurance. 48.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.22 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 36790 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36790. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 59 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1 health care providers accessible to residents in 36790, Stanton, Alabama.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36790 & Primary Care Availability in Stanton

This analysis provides a COPD score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP Code 36790, along with an evaluation of primary care accessibility in Stanton. The COPD score, in this context, is a composite measure reflecting factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician availability, resource utilization, and access to specialized care. This assessment is designed to highlight strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement in providing care to individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The foundation of a strong COPD care system rests on the availability of PCPs. In ZIP Code 36790, physician-to-patient ratios become a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased opportunity for preventative care, and potentially compromised disease management. Conversely, a high ratio, while seemingly beneficial, may not guarantee superior care if the quality of the providers is not up to par. The analysis considers publicly available data on physician distribution, coupled with information regarding patient demographics in 36790, to calculate a preliminary physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio serves as a baseline for understanding the potential burden on existing healthcare providers.

Primary care availability in Stanton, which may influence access for some residents of 36790, is also assessed. The analysis investigates the number of PCPs actively practicing within Stanton, including their specialties and any affiliations with larger healthcare networks. The proximity of these providers to the residents of 36790 is another important factor. Areas with limited geographic access to primary care often experience poorer health outcomes, particularly for chronic conditions like COPD.

The analysis then moves beyond simple physician counts and delves into the operational aspects of care delivery. Standout practices are identified based on several criteria. These include the adoption of evidence-based COPD management guidelines, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and the availability of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT). Practices that proactively screen for COPD, offer patient education programs, and participate in quality improvement initiatives receive higher scores. The presence of dedicated respiratory therapists within a practice is also a significant positive indicator, as these professionals play a vital role in patient education, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

Telemedicine adoption is evaluated as a critical component of modern COPD care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and telehealth-based educational programs are considered to be more responsive to the needs of patients. Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel for patients, improve access to care for those in rural areas, and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and their healthcare providers. The analysis assesses the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan.

The assessment recognizes the significant impact of mental health on COPD management. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting, or through referral networks, is therefore crucial. The analysis examines whether practices offer on-site mental health services, partner with mental health providers, or provide resources for patients struggling with the psychological aspects of COPD. Access to support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care is all considered.

Specific examples of practices within 36790 that demonstrate a strong commitment to COPD care are identified. These practices are recognized for their adherence to best practices, innovative approaches to patient management, and dedication to improving patient outcomes. The analysis might highlight practices that have implemented comprehensive COPD management programs, including regular pulmonary function testing, patient education sessions, and medication management protocols. The presence of dedicated care coordinators, who help patients navigate the healthcare system and access necessary resources, is also a positive indicator.

The analysis considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on COPD care. Patients with lower incomes, limited access to transportation, and inadequate housing may face significant barriers to accessing care. The analysis examines whether practices address these challenges by offering financial assistance programs, providing transportation support, or partnering with community organizations to address social determinants of health.

The analysis assesses the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs in the region. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that includes exercise training, education, and support for individuals with COPD. Access to these programs can significantly improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life. The analysis identifies the location of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, their accessibility, and their integration into the overall COPD care system.

The final COPD score for each practice is determined by weighting the various factors discussed above. This score is not just a number; it is a comprehensive reflection of the practice's commitment to providing high-quality COPD care. The analysis provides a detailed breakdown of the scoring methodology, including the specific criteria used and the weight assigned to each factor. The results are presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy comparison of practices and identification of areas for improvement.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By identifying strengths and weaknesses in the COPD care system, the analysis can help to improve access to care, enhance the quality of care, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals living with COPD. This assessment serves as a foundation for future improvements.

For a visual representation of physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant data points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas with unmet needs.