06114, Hartford, Connecticut COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 06114, Hartford, Connecticut is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.74 percent of the residents in 06114 has some form of health insurance. 55.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.25 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 06114 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,495 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06114. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,589 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,971 health care providers accessible to residents in 06114, Hartford, Connecticut.

**COPD Score Analysis: Hartford, CT (ZIP Code 06114)**

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within Hartford, CT, specifically ZIP code 06114, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, dubbed a “COPD Score,” considers factors such as physician availability, practice quality, adoption of innovative technologies, and access to crucial mental health support, all critical elements in managing this complex respiratory illness. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the resources available to patients and identify areas for potential improvement. This is not a numerical score but a comprehensive assessment.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on the availability of qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). In Hartford, and particularly within 06114, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Publicly available data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from insurance providers, are essential to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per doctor, would negatively impact the COPD Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This includes factors like the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (e.g., spirometry), and the adherence to evidence-based guidelines for COPD management. Practices with a strong focus on patient education, including smoking cessation programs and self-management strategies, would receive a higher evaluation. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability, facilitating seamless communication between different healthcare providers, is another important aspect. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these standards would contribute positively to the overall COPD Score.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has emerged as a valuable tool in managing chronic conditions like COPD. In 06114, the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices is a significant factor. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, offering virtual follow-up appointments, and providing remote patient monitoring devices would receive a higher rating. The availability of technical support for patients using telemedicine is also a critical consideration.

The psychological impact of COPD should not be overlooked. Living with a chronic respiratory illness can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within primary care practices or through referral networks is essential. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues, provide access to counseling services, and collaborate with mental health specialists would significantly enhance the COPD Score.

Identifying standout practices within 06114 is crucial. These practices serve as models of best practices and can inspire improvements across the entire healthcare landscape. Practices that demonstrate excellence in COPD management often have several key characteristics. They might have physicians with specialized training in pulmonary medicine or chronic disease management. They likely employ a multidisciplinary approach, involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals. They are committed to patient education and empowerment, providing patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their condition effectively. They may also actively participate in research or quality improvement initiatives, constantly striving to improve the care they deliver.

The presence of community resources, such as support groups, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and access to affordable medications, also contributes to the overall COPD Score. These resources provide patients with a sense of community, practical support, and access to essential services. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources would be highly regarded. The accessibility of these resources, including their location, operating hours, and cost, is also an important factor.

Analyzing primary care availability in Hartford, specifically 06114, requires a careful examination of several factors. The geographic distribution of primary care practices is a key consideration. Are practices evenly distributed throughout the ZIP code, or are there areas with limited access to care? The availability of transportation options, such as public transportation and ride-sharing services, is also important, particularly for patients with mobility limitations. The acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices is another factor, as this can impact access to care for patients with different insurance coverage.

The overall goal of this COPD Score analysis is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to COPD patients in 06114. By evaluating physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support, this analysis aims to identify strengths and weaknesses in the current healthcare landscape. This information can be used to inform policy decisions, improve healthcare delivery, and ultimately, improve the lives of individuals living with COPD.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hartford and explore the distribution of resources, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and community support services, we invite you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize this data, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.