42266, Pembroke, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 42266, Pembroke, Kentucky is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.80 percent of the residents in 42266 has some form of health insurance. 38.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.24 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 42266 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 874 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42266. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 381 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,181 health care providers accessible to residents in 42266, Pembroke, Kentucky.

## COPD Score Analysis: Pembroke, KY (ZIP Code 42266)

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within Pembroke, Kentucky (ZIP code 42266) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, focusing on primary care availability and related resources, will provide a COPD Score assessment, acknowledging that a precise numerical score is difficult without direct access to granular, real-time data. We will consider key factors influencing COPD management, including physician density, access to specialists, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The primary care physician (PCP) landscape is the cornerstone of COPD management. In Pembroke, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care – all detrimental to COPD patients. Publicly available data sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, can offer a preliminary assessment of physician density. However, these sources may not reflect the actual availability of PCPs accepting new patients or specializing in pulmonary care.

Pembroke's proximity to larger urban centers with hospitals and specialist clinics is also a significant factor. While Pembroke itself might have a limited number of pulmonologists, the ability of patients to access specialized care in nearby cities like Hopkinsville (Christian County) is critical. This access influences the COPD Score positively, as specialized care is essential for managing advanced stages of the disease. The presence of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, often offered within hospitals or specialized clinics, is another key consideration. These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support, significantly improving the quality of life for COPD patients.

Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine is another vital component of the COPD Score analysis. Telemedicine offers several advantages for COPD patients, including remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and access to educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, allowing for remote patient monitoring and virtual check-ins, would likely receive a higher score. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues or those residing in rural areas, where travel to appointments can be challenging. The availability of telehealth services, particularly for medication management and symptom monitoring, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked in COPD care, yet they are profoundly important. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score needs to reflect the availability of mental health support within the community. This includes access to mental health professionals, support groups, and educational programs that address the psychological challenges associated with the disease. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their COPD management protocols would be favorably assessed.

Identifying standout practices in Pembroke is essential. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care, including early diagnosis, aggressive treatment, patient education, and proactive management of comorbidities, deserve recognition. This would involve looking for practices that have implemented evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, utilize spirometry for early detection, and offer smoking cessation programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care plans and provide ongoing support would also receive a higher score.

The COPD Score for Pembroke, KY, would be adjusted based on these factors. A high score would indicate a community with adequate access to primary care, specialists, telemedicine, and mental health resources, coupled with proactive and patient-centered care. A lower score would suggest challenges in one or more of these areas, potentially leading to poorer patient outcomes. The final score, while not a precise number, reflects the overall quality of COPD care available to residents.

This analysis also considers the availability of community resources. The presence of support groups, such as those affiliated with the American Lung Association or local hospitals, can provide valuable peer support and education for COPD patients and their families. The availability of transportation assistance for patients who struggle to get to appointments is another important factor.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of educational materials and programs. Practices that actively educate patients about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies are likely to have better patient outcomes. This includes providing information on proper inhaler technique, recognizing and managing exacerbations, and adhering to medication regimens.

The COPD Score is not static. It is a dynamic assessment that can change over time as healthcare resources evolve. Regular updates and re-evaluations are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This dynamic approach ensures that the COPD Score accurately reflects the current state of COPD care in Pembroke, KY.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD Score for Pembroke, KY, requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. The final score reflects the overall quality of COPD care available to residents, with a focus on patient-centered care and proactive management of the disease.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pembroke, including physician locations, hospital access, and community resource locations, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers detailed, data-driven maps that can help you visualize the availability of healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your health.