06786, Terryville, Connecticut COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 06786, Terryville, Connecticut is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.71 percent of the residents in 06786 has some form of health insurance. 35.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.83 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 06786 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,757 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06786. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,483 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 667 health care providers accessible to residents in 06786, Terryville, Connecticut.

## COPD Score Analysis: Terryville, CT (ZIP Code 06786)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific focus on resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within Terryville, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06786). The goal is to provide a COPD Score assessment, considering factors crucial for effective COPD care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. This evaluation is intended to offer a snapshot of the local healthcare landscape, recognizing that conditions are dynamic and subject to change.

Terryville, a small town within the larger Plymouth, CT area, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its relatively rural setting may impact access to specialized care and advanced technologies. The analysis will delve into these considerations.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for Terryville requires accessing current, publicly available data from sources such as the Connecticut Department of Public Health or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). However, based on general demographic data and national averages, it is reasonable to assume that Terryville may face challenges in physician availability, particularly in primary care. Rural areas often experience shortages, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing providers.

The availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor in COPD management. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and proactive management are essential for slowing disease progression and improving the quality of life for COPD patients. A shortage of primary care providers can hinder access to these vital services.

**Standout Practices and Specialization:**

Identifying "standout practices" necessitates a review of practice profiles, patient reviews, and information on physician specializations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management often incorporate specific features. These include:

* **Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT):** The ability to perform PFTs on-site is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring COPD.
* **Respiratory Therapists:** Access to respiratory therapists who can provide education, support, and guidance on breathing techniques, medication management, and lifestyle modifications is essential.
* **COPD Education Programs:** Practices that offer educational programs for patients and their families can significantly improve patient self-management skills and adherence to treatment plans.
* **Care Coordination:** Effective care coordination between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and other specialists is critical for holistic COPD care.

A thorough investigation would identify practices within the 06786 ZIP code that offer these services. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists in the area is also a significant indicator of specialized care availability.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers significant potential for improving COPD care in Terryville. It can address geographical barriers and improve access to specialists and remote monitoring services. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Patients can consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent check-ups.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Devices that track vital signs, such as oxygen saturation and heart rate, can be used to monitor patients' conditions remotely, allowing for early intervention if necessary.
* **Medication Management:** Telemedicine can facilitate medication refills, provide medication education, and monitor patient adherence to prescribed regimens.
* **Pulmonary Rehabilitation:** Telemedicine can be utilized to provide remote pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

The adoption of telemedicine technologies among primary care practices in Terryville will be a key factor in determining the COPD Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to provide more accessible and comprehensive care.

**Mental Health Resources and COPD:**

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. These conditions can worsen COPD symptoms and negatively impact overall well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of effective COPD care.

The analysis will investigate the availability of:

* **Mental health professionals:** Psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in treating patients with chronic illnesses.
* **Support groups:** Peer support groups can provide a valuable forum for patients to share experiences, learn coping strategies, and reduce feelings of isolation.
* **Integrated care models:** Practices that integrate mental health services into primary care can improve access to mental health support and facilitate a more holistic approach to patient care.

The presence of these resources will significantly influence the COPD Score.

**Overall COPD Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors outlined above, a comprehensive COPD Score for Terryville, CT (06786) would be determined. The score would reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized COPD services, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the availability of mental health resources.

The final COPD Score will provide a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape in Terryville, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in COPD care. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve the lives of individuals living with COPD in this community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Terryville, including the location of practices, the availability of services, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome.