42166, Summer Shade, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 42166, Summer Shade, Kentucky is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.23 percent of the residents in 42166 has some form of health insurance. 42.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.48 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 42166 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 631 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42166. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 483 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 873 health care providers accessible to residents in 42166, Summer Shade, Kentucky.

## COPD Score Analysis: Summer Shade, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42166)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Summer Shade, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42166) through the lens of COPD management requires a nuanced approach. This analysis, a 'COPD Score' assessment, examines primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and identifies any standout practices within the community. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents managing COPD, a chronic respiratory disease that significantly impacts quality of life.

The foundation of effective COPD care lies in accessible primary care. Summer Shade, a rural community, likely faces challenges regarding physician density. A low physician-to-patient ratio could hinder timely diagnosis, regular check-ups, and medication management, all critical for COPD patients. Assessing this ratio involves analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the total population. Data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure will be essential for this calculation. A concerning ratio would indicate a potential bottleneck in accessing care, leading to delayed interventions and potentially poorer outcomes for COPD sufferers.

Beyond raw numbers, the type of primary care available is also important. Are the practices in Summer Shade primarily solo practices, or are there larger, multi-physician groups? Larger groups often offer greater availability, extended hours, and the potential for a wider range of specialized services, including respiratory therapists or pulmonary specialists who can provide COPD-specific expertise. The presence of these specialists within the primary care setting can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the COPD Score analysis. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and education. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. Investigating the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms, including video conferencing and remote monitoring devices, will be crucial. Practices actively embracing telemedicine will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient-centered care and improved accessibility.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to COPD management. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with its physical limitations, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score must evaluate the availability of mental health services within Summer Shade. Are there mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers, practicing in the area? Are these services integrated with primary care, allowing for seamless referrals and coordinated care? The presence of support groups or educational programs for COPD patients and their families also contributes positively to the score.

Identifying standout practices within Summer Shade requires a deeper dive. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the quality of care provided, and evaluating the practice's commitment to COPD management. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to COPD care, such as offering patient education programs, implementing structured COPD management protocols, and actively participating in quality improvement initiatives, should be recognized. These practices serve as models for others and contribute to a higher overall COPD Score for the community.

The COPD Score also needs to account for the availability of respiratory therapists and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These specialized services are essential for optimizing lung function, improving exercise capacity, and educating patients about self-management techniques. The presence of these resources within the community or readily accessible nearby significantly enhances the quality of COPD care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, a key test for diagnosing and monitoring COPD. The accessibility of these tools within primary care practices or local hospitals is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Finally, the COPD Score should consider the availability of resources for medication adherence. COPD patients often require multiple medications, and adherence to these regimens is critical for managing the disease. Practices that provide medication counseling, offer refill reminders, or utilize electronic prescribing systems can improve patient adherence and outcomes.

In conclusion, the COPD Score analysis for Summer Shade, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42166) requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of specialized COPD services. By evaluating these factors, we can gain a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. This information is crucial for residents managing COPD, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve the quality of care within the community.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Summer Shade, Kentucky, and to explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides detailed, map-based visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information. Explore the power of spatial data analysis with CartoChrome and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.