42459, Sturgis, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 42459, Sturgis, Kentucky is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.44 percent of the residents in 42459 has some form of health insurance. 48.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.45 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 42459 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 680 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42459. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 889 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 186 health care providers accessible to residents in 42459, Sturgis, Kentucky.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 42459 & Primary Care in Sturgis

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and specialized COPD resources within Sturgis, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42459), necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within the defined geographic area. The score will consider factors like physician density, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial components of comprehensive COPD management.

The first element of this analysis focuses on physician-to-patient ratios. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists practicing within 42459 is the initial step. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure will be consulted. This data, however, may not reflect the full picture, as it doesn't account for physician specialization, patient demographics, or the capacity of each practice. Therefore, the analysis must also consider the patient population of Sturgis, including age distribution and the prevalence of COPD, to derive a meaningful ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, could suggest potential access challenges, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised care.

Beyond physician density, the analysis must delve into the operational characteristics of primary care practices in Sturgis. Identifying standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management is critical. This involves evaluating factors such as: the availability of spirometry testing (a key diagnostic tool for COPD), the presence of certified respiratory therapists, and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in COPD-focused quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the American Lung Association or the COPD Foundation, should be recognized. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive care, including smoking cessation programs and coordinated care with pulmonologists, will score higher in this assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial component. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly through virtual consultations, can significantly improve COPD management, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices in Sturgis offer telemedicine services for COPD patients. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., for oxygen saturation levels), and the use of telehealth platforms to deliver patient education and support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in COPD care, yet it is a critical aspect of holistic treatment. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the analysis must examine the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and the broader healthcare ecosystem of Sturgis. This includes assessing whether practices offer on-site mental health professionals, have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, and provide resources for managing the psychological impact of COPD. Practices that actively address the mental health needs of their COPD patients will be viewed favorably.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialized COPD resources within the broader healthcare landscape of Sturgis and the surrounding areas. This includes the presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The proximity of these specialists and services to primary care practices is important, as it impacts the ease with which patients can access specialized care. The analysis will evaluate the coordination of care between primary care physicians and pulmonologists, including the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and care coordination.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider patient feedback and satisfaction. Publicly available online reviews and patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by primary care practices in Sturgis. The analysis will review patient comments regarding access to care, communication with physicians, the effectiveness of treatment plans, and the overall patient experience. This qualitative data will be incorporated into the "COPD Score" to provide a more comprehensive and patient-centered assessment.

The "COPD Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 42459 and primary care availability in Sturgis will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted importance of each of the factors discussed above. The score will be presented on a scale, allowing for a clear understanding of the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care in the area. This score will be useful for patients seeking primary care, healthcare providers looking to improve their services, and policymakers aiming to enhance the healthcare infrastructure in Sturgis.

The final "COPD Score" will be a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new data becomes available. Regular updates will be necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of quality improvement initiatives. This ongoing assessment will ensure that the "COPD Score" remains a relevant and valuable resource for the community.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sturgis and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic data visualization. CartoChrome maps can transform complex healthcare data into interactive and insightful visualizations, allowing you to explore physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care in a dynamic and engaging way. Visit CartoChrome maps today to unlock the full potential of geographic data and gain a comprehensive perspective on COPD care in your community.