41759, Sassafras, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 41759, Sassafras, Kentucky is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 41759 has some form of health insurance. 77.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.52 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 41759 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 110 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41759. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 227 health care providers accessible to residents in 41759, Sassafras, Kentucky.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 41759 and Primary Care in Sassafras

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care, particularly in the context of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the specific geographic area of ZIP Code 41759 and the community of Sassafras, aiming to provide a 'COPD Score' assessment based on several key factors. This score, though not a formal, standardized metric, will reflect the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing COPD within this region.

The first critical element is physician-to-patient ratio. ZIP Code 41759, located in a rural area, likely faces challenges common to such locations: a scarcity of medical professionals. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, directly impacts COPD care. Patients may experience longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists (like pulmonologists), and increased travel distances to receive care. This scarcity significantly impacts the overall COPD score, potentially dragging it down.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and specialization of available physicians are crucial. Are there board-certified pulmonologists readily accessible within a reasonable travel distance? COPD management necessitates specialized expertise. The presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists is vital for comprehensive care, including accurate diagnosis, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. The availability of these specialists contributes positively to the COPD score. Conversely, the absence or limited availability of such specialists would negatively impact the score, potentially leading to inadequate disease management and poorer patient outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. Are there any primary care clinics or medical groups known for providing exceptional COPD care? Factors to consider include the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and proactive disease management strategies. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, actively involving patients in their care plans, and offering support groups or educational resources, would significantly boost the COPD score. Researching patient reviews, clinic websites, and public health reports can help identify these standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the COPD score. In rural areas, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and ongoing care. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and virtual respiratory therapy sessions are better positioned to manage COPD effectively. The availability of telemedicine services significantly improves the COPD score, enhancing patient access to care and potentially reducing hospital readmissions. Conversely, the lack of telemedicine options would negatively affect the score, potentially leaving patients isolated and underserved.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to effective COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is crucial for addressing these issues. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care programs, offering referrals to mental health specialists or providing on-site counseling, would contribute positively to the COPD score. The absence of such resources would negatively impact the score, potentially leading to poorer patient outcomes and reduced quality of life.

Primary care availability in Sassafras, a community within or near ZIP Code 41759, is a crucial element. Sassafras, as a specific geographic area, requires a localized assessment. This assessment considers the number of primary care physicians serving the community, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services. Are there enough primary care physicians to meet the needs of the population, including those with COPD? Are the clinics accessible by public transportation or easily reachable by car? The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the COPD score.

The assessment of primary care availability in Sassafras also considers the presence of ancillary services. Are there on-site or readily accessible pharmacies for medication refills? Are there respiratory therapy services available within the community? The availability of these ancillary services contributes positively to the COPD score, streamlining patient care and improving convenience. The absence of these services would negatively impact the score, potentially creating barriers to effective COPD management.

The overall COPD score for doctors in ZIP Code 41759 and primary care availability in Sassafras, therefore, is a composite of these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited specialist availability, lack of telemedicine, and absence of mental health resources would result in a lower score. Conversely, a higher physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialists, robust telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health services would lead to a higher score.

The analysis of the COPD score is an ongoing process. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates are required to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This dynamic nature underscores the importance of using tools that provide up-to-date, accurate information.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 41759 and Sassafras, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data visualization. Utilize CartoChrome maps to map physician locations, clinic accessibility, and the availability of various healthcare resources. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear, visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in COPD care within this region.