41766, Thousandsticks, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 41766, Thousandsticks, Kentucky is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.64 percent of the residents in 41766 has some form of health insurance. 73.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 15.19 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 41766 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 131 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41766. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 183 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 183 health care providers accessible to residents in 41766, Thousandsticks, Kentucky.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Thousandsticks, KY (ZIP Code 41766)

Thousandsticks, Kentucky, nestled within ZIP code 41766, presents a unique challenge when assessing the availability of primary care physicians and resources for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis delves into the landscape, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, culminating in a call to action for a powerful mapping tool.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment in a rural area like Thousandsticks begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. Accurate data is crucial. Without it, any conclusions are speculative. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), offers insights into physician density. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the HRSA data is often based on county-level information, which can obscure the specific realities within a ZIP code. Thousandsticks, being a small community, likely experiences a significantly lower physician-to-patient ratio than the national average. This scarcity of primary care physicians is a major concern for patients with COPD, who require regular monitoring, medication management, and access to specialists.

Identifying standout practices within the community is another important facet. This involves researching the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of best practices for COPD management. It is difficult to provide specifics without direct access to patient records and practice performance metrics. However, it is possible to look for practices that have been recognized for their commitment to patient care, particularly those that have invested in specialized equipment for pulmonary function testing or that have demonstrated a focus on patient education and support groups.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in expanding access to care, particularly in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be available locally. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care physicians in Thousandsticks is difficult to determine without direct surveying. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that the adoption rate may be lower than in more urban areas due to factors such as limited broadband internet access and physician familiarity with the technology.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD management, but they are vital. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric support, is crucial for addressing these challenges. The availability of these services in Thousandsticks is likely limited. Patients may need to travel long distances to access mental health professionals, adding another layer of complexity to their care.

The challenges of COPD management in Thousandsticks are compounded by the social determinants of health. Factors such as poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and exposure to environmental pollutants can exacerbate the symptoms of COPD and make it more difficult for patients to manage their condition. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for improving the overall health and well-being of the community.

The effectiveness of COPD management hinges on a comprehensive approach that includes early diagnosis, appropriate medication, pulmonary rehabilitation, and patient education. The availability of these resources in Thousandsticks is likely constrained by the limited number of healthcare providers and the geographic isolation of the community.

Further investigation would involve a deeper dive into the specific practices and providers serving the area. This could include a review of publicly available information, such as physician profiles and practice websites, as well as direct contact with local healthcare providers and patient advocacy groups. The aim would be to gather more detailed information about the services offered, the quality of care provided, and the challenges faced by both patients and providers.

In conclusion, the landscape of COPD care in Thousandsticks, KY (ZIP Code 41766) presents significant challenges. The low physician-to-patient ratio, potential limitations in telemedicine adoption, and the likely scarcity of mental health resources all contribute to a complex situation. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes efforts to recruit and retain healthcare providers, expand access to telemedicine, and improve the availability of mental health services. This analysis highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Thousandsticks.

For a more in-depth and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Thousandsticks, including physician locations, access to resources, and potential areas of need, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize data and help you identify critical insights. Use CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Thousandsticks and to identify opportunities for improvement.