41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.06 percent of the residents in 41262 has some form of health insurance. 45.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.64 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 41262 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 238 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41262. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 252 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,807 health care providers accessible to residents in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky.

## COPD Score Analysis: Tomahawk, KY (ZIP Code 41262)

The analysis focuses on assessing the quality of primary care available in Tomahawk, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41262) through the lens of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management. This approach considers the availability and quality of healthcare resources crucial for effectively managing COPD, a prevalent respiratory condition often exacerbated by environmental factors common in rural areas. The evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all factors impacting the overall "COPD Score" for the region.

The initial assessment reveals a significant challenge: limited primary care physician availability. Physician-to-patient ratios in rural areas like Tomahawk are often considerably higher than the national average. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased time per patient visit, and reduced access to preventative care, all detrimental to effective COPD management. This scarcity directly impacts the initial "COPD Score," placing the area at a disadvantage.

Identifying specific practices within the ZIP code is crucial. However, due to the limited availability of public data, pinpointing individual practices requires a more in-depth investigation. We must consider factors such as the number of board-certified pulmonologists and primary care physicians specializing in respiratory conditions. Furthermore, evaluating the patient volume and accessibility of each practice is essential. For example, practices with extended hours, weekend availability, and convenient locations will likely score higher.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in improving the "COPD Score." Telemedicine offers numerous benefits for COPD patients, including remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management support. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve patient access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or living in remote locations. The availability of telehealth services can mitigate the challenges of physician scarcity, thus increasing the "COPD Score."

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital component of COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices with integrated mental health services or strong referral networks to mental health professionals will contribute positively to the "COPD Score." The availability of mental health support can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall well-being, making a significant difference in managing the condition.

The evaluation of standout practices involves analyzing several factors. This includes the presence of specialized COPD clinics or programs, the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and actively engage in disease management strategies will naturally score higher. These practices demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care, improving the "COPD Score" for the area.

Furthermore, the availability of diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, within the primary care setting is essential for early detection and management of COPD. Practices equipped with these tools can provide more timely and accurate diagnoses, leading to improved patient outcomes. This capability directly impacts the "COPD Score."

The overall "COPD Score" for Tomahawk, KY (ZIP Code 41262) is likely to be negatively impacted by the limited primary care physician availability. The score will be further affected by the extent of telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized COPD programs. The absence of these elements will lower the score.

To improve the "COPD Score," Tomahawk needs to prioritize several key areas. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, particularly those with experience in respiratory medicine, is crucial. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine by existing practices can significantly improve patient access to care. Integrating mental health services or establishing strong referral networks is also essential. Investing in patient education and pulmonary rehabilitation programs will further improve outcomes.

A comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tomahawk, KY (ZIP Code 41262) is critical for effective COPD management. The "COPD Score" serves as a valuable tool for identifying areas of strength and weakness. This analysis highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals living with COPD in the community.

While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed investigation is necessary to obtain a precise "COPD Score." This would involve gathering data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This requires a comprehensive data collection effort, including contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing public health data, and surveying patients.

The information in this analysis is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tomahawk, KY (ZIP Code 41262), and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize the power of mapping technology.

**Click here to explore the healthcare landscape of Tomahawk and surrounding areas with CartoChrome maps. Visualize physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in COPD management.**