06120, Hartford, Connecticut COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 06120, Hartford, Connecticut is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.34 percent of the residents in 06120 has some form of health insurance. 67.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 29.99 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 06120 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,299 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06120. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 999 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,685 health care providers accessible to residents in 06120, Hartford, Connecticut.

## COPD Score Analysis: Hartford, CT (ZIP Code 06120)

Analyzing the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Hartford, Connecticut, specifically within the 06120 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," considers physician density, primary care accessibility, technological integration, and the availability of crucial support services like mental health resources. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on accessible primary care. In Hartford, and particularly within 06120, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A high ratio, meaning fewer primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent follow-up appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for COPD patients. Data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the American Medical Association must be analyzed to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. This figure will serve as a baseline for the "Accessibility" component of the COPD Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within 06120 is also important. Are physicians clustered in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Are there enough PCPs accepting new patients, particularly those with complex chronic conditions like COPD? The geographic distribution of practices and their acceptance of new patients will influence the "Equity" sub-score.

The quality of care provided by primary care practices is another crucial factor. This involves assessing the practices' adherence to COPD treatment guidelines, their use of evidence-based practices, and their patient satisfaction scores. Data from sources like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc can be analyzed to gauge practice performance. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to quality, through metrics like regular spirometry testing and patient education programs, will score higher on the "Quality" component.

Identifying standout practices within 06120 is essential. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in COPD care. They may excel in areas such as patient education, medication management, or providing specialized services like pulmonary rehabilitation. These practices should be highlighted, as they offer valuable insights into effective COPD management within the community. Their success stories can be used to inform improvements across the entire healthcare system.

Telemedicine adoption is a rapidly evolving aspect of healthcare, especially relevant for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to care, reduced travel burdens, and the potential for more frequent monitoring. Practices in 06120 that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and virtual pulmonary rehabilitation programs, will receive a higher score on the "Technology" component. The availability of telehealth services, particularly those offered in multiple languages, can significantly improve access for diverse patient populations.

COPD often co-exists with other health challenges, including mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore critical. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups specifically tailored to individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their COPD care plans will score higher on the "Holistic Care" component. The availability of these resources, and their accessibility, significantly impacts the overall well-being of COPD patients.

The "COPD Score" should also consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, are proven to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life for COPD patients. The presence and accessibility of these programs within the 06120 ZIP code will significantly influence the overall score.

Finally, the "Community Support" component will examine the availability of support groups, patient education materials, and resources for accessing financial assistance for medications and other healthcare costs. These resources can empower patients to take an active role in their care and improve their overall well-being.

The analysis of these factors, carefully weighted and combined, will result in a comprehensive "COPD Score" for the 06120 ZIP code. This score, along with the detailed breakdown of each component, will provide a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in Hartford. It will identify areas of strength, highlight areas for improvement, and inform strategies for enhancing the quality of care and improving patient outcomes. This analysis is an ongoing process, requiring regular updates to reflect changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the evolving needs of the community.

This detailed analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of COPD care within a specific geographic area. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of care, assessing telemedicine adoption, and investigating the availability of mental health resources and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, a comprehensive "COPD Score" can be developed. This score can then be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to inform strategies for improving care and outcomes for individuals living with COPD.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hartford, including the distribution of physicians, the location of support services, and the accessibility of care, consider exploring interactive maps.

**Click here to explore the data with CartoChrome maps and visualize the COPD Score in Hartford, CT (06120) and beyond!**