39363, Stonewall, Mississippi COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 39363, Stonewall, Mississippi is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.75 percent of the residents in 39363 has some form of health insurance. 53.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.30 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 39363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 267 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39363. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 298 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 235 health care providers accessible to residents in 39363, Stonewall, Mississippi.

## COPD Score Analysis: Stonewall, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39363)

Analyzing the quality of COPD care in Stonewall, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39363) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the specific resources dedicated to managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis will assess the current state of affairs, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a call to action.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on accessible primary care. In Stonewall, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Mississippi State Department of Health will be essential to ascertain the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 39363 ZIP code and the estimated population. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, could significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for COPD patients. This shortage would likely lead to longer wait times for appointments, making it more difficult for individuals to receive the care they need.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Determining which practices in Stonewall demonstrate a commitment to COPD care requires investigation. This involves looking for practices that have implemented specific protocols for COPD management. Such practices may include regular spirometry testing to assess lung function, patient education programs focused on disease management, and smoking cessation support. Identifying practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives related to COPD care would also be indicative of a commitment to excellence.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas like Stonewall, where geographical barriers can limit access to healthcare. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within the primary care practices in the 39363 ZIP code is crucial. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and patient monitoring, improving access to care for COPD patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Investigating the availability of virtual visits, remote monitoring devices, and telehealth education programs will provide a clearer picture of telemedicine's impact.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. COPD patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges due to the chronic nature of their illness, breathing difficulties, and the impact on their daily lives. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources for COPD patients in Stonewall is therefore critical. This includes assessing whether primary care practices have integrated mental health services, offer referrals to mental health professionals, or provide access to support groups. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the overall well-being of COPD patients and contribute to better disease management.

The analysis of standout practices will consider several factors. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient education, including providing educational materials and support groups, are likely to be considered high-performing. Practices that have implemented comprehensive COPD management plans, including regular spirometry testing, medication reviews, and smoking cessation programs, will also be recognized. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in research or quality improvement initiatives related to COPD care will be viewed favorably.

The investigation into telemedicine adoption will focus on the availability and utilization of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices, and telehealth education programs. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their COPD care programs will be highlighted as examples of innovation and patient-centered care. Assessing the availability of these resources is vital for understanding the accessibility of care in the area.

Regarding mental health resources, the analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, the availability of referrals to mental health professionals, and the presence of support groups for COPD patients. Practices that prioritize mental health support will be recognized for their holistic approach to patient care.

The success of COPD management in Stonewall is ultimately dependent on a combination of factors. Adequate physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. The integration of these elements creates a more comprehensive and effective system for managing COPD.

This analysis will also consider the availability of specialized pulmonologists in the region. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for most COPD patients, access to pulmonologists is essential for patients with complex cases or those requiring specialized treatments. The presence of pulmonologists within a reasonable distance of Stonewall can improve access to advanced care.

Finally, understanding the socioeconomic factors that impact COPD care in Stonewall is also important. Factors such as poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can create barriers to care for many patients. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

The findings of this COPD Score analysis will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Stonewall, Mississippi. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement, advocate for increased resources, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals living with COPD.

To visualize the data, understand the geographical distribution of resources, and identify potential gaps in care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing for a more in-depth analysis and a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities in COPD care within the 39363 ZIP code.