42647, Stearns, Kentucky COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 42647, Stearns, Kentucky is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.89 percent of the residents in 42647 has some form of health insurance. 72.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 34.48 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 42647 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 918 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42647. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 552 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 133 health care providers accessible to residents in 42647, Stearns, Kentucky.

This analysis evaluates the quality of COPD care within ZIP code 42647, focusing on physician resources, primary care accessibility in Stearns, and related factors. The goal is to provide an understanding of the COPD care landscape, including physician-to-patient ratios, adoption of telemedicine, and availability of mental health support, culminating in a call to action for utilizing mapping resources.

ZIP code 42647, which encompasses the town of Stearns, Kentucky, presents a unique healthcare environment. Rural locations often face challenges in accessing specialized medical care, and COPD management is no exception. Assessing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial, as PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for COPD patients. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment.

To accurately gauge the COPD care landscape, we must consider the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the total population. Publicly available data from the US Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure can provide this information. However, it is important to note that the actual number of PCPs actively managing COPD patients may be lower due to factors such as specialization, retirement, or part-time practice.

Beyond the raw physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by PCPs is paramount. This includes their experience with COPD management, their adherence to established clinical guidelines, and their ability to effectively communicate with patients. Information on physician experience and adherence to guidelines can be obtained through various sources, including physician profiles on healthcare websites, patient reviews, and data from professional organizations.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving access to COPD care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by PCPs in 42647 can be assessed through surveys, interviews, and publicly available information on healthcare providers' websites.

Another crucial component of COPD care is the availability of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore essential for providing comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, their accessibility, and their willingness to collaborate with PCPs in the management of COPD patients.

Identifying standout practices within 42647 is also important. These practices may demonstrate excellence in COPD management, either through the use of innovative treatment approaches, high patient satisfaction scores, or strong patient outcomes. Evaluating these practices involves a combination of factors, including physician experience, patient reviews, and data on clinical outcomes.

The assessment of COPD care in Stearns must also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the availability of respiratory therapists, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and access to specialized pulmonologists. Respiratory therapists play a critical role in providing education, monitoring, and support to COPD patients. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs help patients improve their lung function, exercise capacity, and quality of life. Access to specialized pulmonologists is important for patients with complex COPD cases.

The availability of these resources can be assessed through surveys, interviews, and publicly available information on healthcare providers' websites. The quality of care provided by these resources can be assessed through patient reviews, data on clinical outcomes, and evaluations from professional organizations.

In evaluating the COPD score, it is essential to consider the challenges faced by patients in rural areas. These challenges include limited access to transportation, socioeconomic factors, and a lack of awareness about COPD. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including improving access to transportation, providing financial assistance to patients, and implementing public awareness campaigns.

The analysis of COPD care within 42647 requires a comprehensive approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the current state of COPD care and identify areas for improvement.

The overall COPD score for doctors in ZIP code 42647 and primary care availability in Stearns is likely to be moderate. The rural location presents challenges, but the presence of dedicated PCPs and the potential for telemedicine adoption offer opportunities for improvement. The key to improving the COPD score lies in addressing the identified challenges and strengthening the healthcare ecosystem.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient needs, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visualize data related to physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant factors, providing a comprehensive view of the COPD care landscape. They allow for a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in improving COPD care in Stearns.