40063, Saint Mary, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 40063, Saint Mary, Kentucky is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 40063 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 40063 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40063. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 659 health care providers accessible to residents in 40063, Saint Mary, Kentucky.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Saint Mary, KY (ZIP Code 40063)

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within ZIP code 40063 (Saint Mary, KY) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors influencing COPD care, including physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. While a definitive "COPD Score" is difficult to quantify precisely without proprietary data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in this area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. A higher ratio generally suggests greater access to care. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The specialties represented within the physician pool are crucial. A robust primary care base is essential, with a sufficient number of family medicine and internal medicine physicians. Pulmonary specialists, though less numerous, are vital for managing advanced COPD cases. The presence of these specialists within or near the 40063 ZIP code is a significant factor in determining the quality of COPD care. Data on physician distribution, including the number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists per 1,000 residents, is vital. Publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide this data.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly impact COPD care. Practices employing certified COPD educators, respiratory therapists, and offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFT) demonstrate a commitment to proactive COPD management. The availability of smoking cessation programs is also critical, as smoking is a primary driver of COPD. Practices that actively screen for and address smoking habits contribute significantly to improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates better care coordination and data management, which is especially important for managing chronic conditions like COPD.

Telemedicine adoption is another key area. Telehealth offers significant advantages for COPD patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, medication management, and virtual consultations. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access, reduce hospital readmissions, and enhance overall disease management. This is especially important for patients in rural areas who may face transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), should be assessed. The integration of telehealth into the practice's workflow and its accessibility to patients, including those with limited technology skills, are also important considerations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for COPD patients. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services or have strong referral networks for mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of mental health therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups in the community is a key factor in the overall quality of COPD care. Assessing the presence of these resources and the practice's approach to addressing mental health needs is vital.

Identifying standout practices within the 40063 ZIP code requires a deeper dive into practice profiles. This includes reviewing patient reviews, assessing the practice's accreditation status, and examining its participation in quality improvement programs. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer comprehensive COPD management services, and actively engage in quality improvement initiatives are likely to provide superior care. This also involves assessing the practice’s responsiveness to patient needs, including the availability of after-hours care and ease of scheduling appointments.

The analysis of primary care availability in Saint Mary also necessitates considering the broader healthcare ecosystem. The presence of hospitals, specialty clinics, and pharmacies in the surrounding area is essential for providing comprehensive care. Proximity to a hospital with pulmonary specialists and intensive care units is particularly important for managing acute COPD exacerbations. The availability of pharmacies that offer specialized COPD medications and respiratory equipment also enhances the quality of care.

The overall COPD Score for doctors in ZIP code 40063 is a composite assessment based on all these factors. It's not a single number but rather a nuanced evaluation. A higher score would indicate a greater availability of primary care physicians, a robust presence of pulmonary specialists, practices with advanced COPD management capabilities, comprehensive telemedicine integration, strong mental health support, and a well-integrated healthcare ecosystem. A lower score would suggest challenges in these areas, potentially leading to poorer patient outcomes.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Saint Mary, KY, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a detailed spatial analysis of healthcare access and provides valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.