41257, Stambaugh, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 41257, Stambaugh, Kentucky is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.76 percent of the residents in 41257 has some form of health insurance. 65.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.41 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 41257 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 129 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41257. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 73 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,834 health care providers accessible to residents in 41257, Stambaugh, Kentucky.

**COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Stambaugh, KY (ZIP Code 41257)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within the Stambaugh, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41257) area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will attempt to offer a ‘COPD Score’ assessment, although a precise numerical score is difficult to produce without comprehensive, real-time data. The focus will be on identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement regarding physician access, COPD-specific care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all within the context of this specific geographic area.

The first critical factor is physician-to-patient ratio. Rural areas often face significant challenges in this regard. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, directly impacts access to care, especially for chronic conditions like COPD, which require regular monitoring and management. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 41257 is crucial. Public health departments, state medical boards, and local hospitals are primary sources for this data. If the ratio is unfavorable, it creates a barrier to timely appointments, follow-up care, and overall disease management. This scarcity can exacerbate existing health disparities, particularly impacting vulnerable populations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians (PCPs) matters. Are the available PCPs concentrated in a single location, or are they spread across the community? The proximity of clinics and practices to residents is a key determinant of access. Patients with COPD, often experiencing shortness of breath and mobility limitations, face greater challenges in accessing distant medical facilities. Transportation options also become critical. Public transportation limitations and the prevalence of private vehicle ownership directly influence the ability of patients to attend appointments.

Identifying standout practices within the 41257 ZIP code is essential. These practices may demonstrate superior COPD management strategies, including early diagnosis, patient education, and adherence to evidence-based treatment guidelines. They might offer specialized services like pulmonary rehabilitation, which is critical for improving lung function and quality of life for COPD patients. Investigating the use of spirometry, a key diagnostic tool, is a critical indicator of a practice’s commitment to COPD care. Patient reviews, while not always definitive, can provide insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall experience of care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve COPD care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. Examining the availability of telehealth services among PCPs in 41257 is essential. Are practices equipped with the necessary technology? Do they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient portals? Telemedicine can be especially beneficial for COPD patients, allowing for regular check-ins, symptom monitoring, and education, all from the comfort of their homes.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the community is therefore crucial. Are there mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, available in the area? Are they integrated into primary care practices, facilitating referrals and coordinated care? The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning for COPD patients.

The availability of specialized COPD resources is another critical factor. This includes pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are designed to improve lung function and exercise capacity, and respiratory therapists, who provide education and support regarding breathing techniques and medication management. Investigating the presence of these resources within the 41257 ZIP code is essential. Proximity to hospitals with pulmonology specialists is also a factor. Patients with severe COPD may require specialized care, and access to these specialists is crucial.

The overall ‘COPD Score’ for 41257 is not easily quantifiable without access to comprehensive data. However, based on the factors discussed, a preliminary assessment can be made. If the physician-to-patient ratio is low, access to care is limited, and telemedicine adoption is lacking, the score would be negatively impacted. If there are standout practices with robust COPD management protocols, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and integrated mental health services, the score would be positively influenced. The degree to which these factors are present will ultimately determine the overall score.

To further enhance this analysis, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant resources within the 41257 ZIP code. These maps can highlight areas with limited access to care, identify potential gaps in services, and facilitate the development of targeted interventions to improve COPD management in Stambaugh, Kentucky.

**Take action now! Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize healthcare access and identify opportunities for improvement in your community. Click here to start mapping today!**