06117, West Hartford, Connecticut COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 06117, West Hartford, Connecticut is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.84 percent of the residents in 06117 has some form of health insurance. 25.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.40 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 06117 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,740 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06117. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,153 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,790 health care providers accessible to residents in 06117, West Hartford, Connecticut.

## COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care in West Hartford (ZIP Code 06117)

This analysis examines the quality of primary care available in West Hartford, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06117), with a specific focus on factors relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management. We assess physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive COPD Score evaluation. This score aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the care landscape for individuals living with COPD within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective COPD care lies in consistent access to a primary care physician (PCP). Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator. Within 06117, the ratio fluctuates, but generally, the area benefits from a relatively favorable ratio compared to national averages. This suggests a potentially higher likelihood of patients securing timely appointments and establishing long-term relationships with their PCPs. However, simply having enough doctors isn't sufficient. The quality of care provided by those physicians is paramount.

Several practices within 06117 stand out for their commitment to comprehensive COPD management. These practices often boast specialized respiratory therapists, offer pulmonary function testing (PFT) onsite, and actively participate in patient education programs. They may also have dedicated care coordinators who assist patients in navigating the complexities of COPD, from medication management and lifestyle modifications to coordinating specialist referrals. These practices demonstrate a proactive approach to COPD care, leading to better patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication refills. The availability of telemedicine services within 06117 varies among practices. Some have fully embraced telemedicine, providing a range of virtual options, while others are still in the early stages of adoption. Practices with robust telemedicine platforms are better positioned to provide ongoing support to COPD patients, especially those with mobility limitations or who live in remote areas.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among individuals with COPD. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. Within 06117, the availability of mental health services varies. Some primary care practices have integrated mental health professionals into their teams, offering convenient access to counseling and therapy. Others may rely on referrals to external mental health providers. The degree of integration and the ease of access to these resources significantly impact the overall quality of care for COPD patients.

Another factor contributing to the COPD score is the availability of specialized pulmonary care. While PCPs are the cornerstone of COPD management, access to pulmonologists is essential for complex cases or when disease progression requires advanced interventions. The proximity and accessibility of pulmonologists in the surrounding areas directly impact the quality of care available to COPD patients in 06117. Practices that have established strong referral networks with pulmonologists and other specialists are better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and educational programs for COPD patients plays a vital role. These resources provide patients with opportunities to connect with others, share experiences, and learn coping strategies. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients and improving their quality of life.

When assessing the COPD Score, we consider the following key elements: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized COPD care within practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, access to pulmonary specialists, and the availability of support groups and educational programs. Practices that excel in all these areas receive a higher COPD Score, indicating a more comprehensive and patient-centered approach to COPD management.

The overall COPD Score for primary care in 06117 is moderately positive. The area benefits from a relatively favorable physician-to-patient ratio and the presence of some standout practices that are dedicated to comprehensive COPD management. However, there is room for improvement in areas such as telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources across all practices. While some practices have embraced these technologies and services, their availability is not yet universally consistent.

The COPD Score is not a static measure. It is influenced by factors such as changes in physician availability, advancements in medical technology, and evolving best practices in COPD care. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the quality of care continues to improve.

In conclusion, the primary care landscape in West Hartford (06117) offers a mixed bag for COPD patients. While some practices are providing excellent care, others need to enhance their services to meet the needs of this vulnerable population. The COPD Score provides a valuable framework for assessing the quality of care and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of this data, including the locations of practices, physician density, and access to specialized resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed, up-to-date mapping solutions that can help you visualize the primary care landscape in West Hartford and other areas.