06419, Killingworth, Connecticut COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 06419, Killingworth, Connecticut is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.96 percent of the residents in 06419 has some form of health insurance. 26.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.64 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 06419 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,239 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06419. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,402 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,548 health care providers accessible to residents in 06419, Killingworth, Connecticut.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 06419 and Primary Care Availability in Killingworth

Analyzing the quality of primary care and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within ZIP code 06419, which encompasses Killingworth, Connecticut, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability of physicians, the infrastructure supporting COPD management, and the integration of innovative technologies. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "COPD Score" assessment, focusing on factors crucial for patients managing this chronic respiratory illness.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially, a less proactive approach to COPD management. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards, will be crucial in determining this ratio for 06419. The national average and regional benchmarks will serve as points of comparison. A low ratio would negatively impact the COPD score, signaling a potential access barrier.

Beyond raw numbers, the types of primary care practices present in the area are important. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger multi-specialty clinics? Larger clinics often offer a wider range of services, including on-site pulmonary specialists, respiratory therapists, and access to diagnostic equipment like spirometry, crucial for COPD diagnosis and monitoring. The presence of these resources within the primary care setting significantly elevates the COPD score. Conversely, reliance on referrals to external specialists, while not inherently negative, can complicate care coordination and potentially delay timely interventions.

Identifying standout practices within 06419 is critical. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Does the practice have a dedicated COPD management program? Are they actively involved in patient education regarding disease management, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications like smoking cessation? Do they offer structured follow-up appointments and regular pulmonary function testing? Practices demonstrating a proactive and comprehensive approach to COPD care would receive a higher score, positively influencing the overall assessment. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element of the COPD score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and provide telehealth education can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms for COPD management, including medication refills, symptom management, and virtual support groups, would receive a higher score. The level of technological integration, including the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate data sharing and care coordination, is also a factor.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, yet they are critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the primary care setting or through referral networks is a crucial component of a holistic COPD care model. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues, provide access to counseling services, and integrate mental health support into their COPD management plans would receive a higher score.

The availability of respiratory therapists is another crucial factor. Respiratory therapists are specialized healthcare professionals who provide direct patient care for individuals with breathing problems. They perform diagnostic tests, administer medications, and provide education and support to patients with COPD. The presence of respiratory therapists within primary care practices or readily accessible through referral networks would positively impact the COPD score.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as support groups, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and smoking cessation programs, also impacts the score. These resources provide patients with additional support, education, and access to evidence-based interventions. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources would be viewed favorably. The integration of these resources into the primary care setting can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Evaluating the overall COPD score also requires considering the responsiveness of the healthcare system to patient needs. This includes factors such as appointment availability, ease of communication with providers, and the ability to access after-hours care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including clear communication, timely responses to inquiries, and a willingness to accommodate patient preferences, would receive a higher score.

Finally, the overall COPD score for 06419 is a dynamic measure. It is subject to change based on various factors, including changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolution of best practices in COPD management. Regular reassessment and updates are crucial to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of care in the area. The score should be used as a tool to identify areas for improvement and to guide efforts to enhance the quality of COPD care for residents of Killingworth.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 06419, including physician locations, practice types, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying potential gaps in care.