39365, Union, Mississippi COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 39365, Union, Mississippi is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.44 percent of the residents in 39365 has some form of health insurance. 46.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.45 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 39365 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,151 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39365. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,556 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 627 health care providers accessible to residents in 39365, Union, Mississippi.

## COPD Score Analysis: Union, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39365)

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and related resources for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Union, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39365) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," assesses several key areas, providing insights into the local healthcare landscape and highlighting opportunities for improvement. The ultimate goal is to understand how well the community supports patients living with COPD, a debilitating and often progressive respiratory illness.

The foundation of any COPD care plan rests on accessible and competent primary care physicians. In Union, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall availability of primary care doctors in this rural area is likely below the national average. This scarcity directly impacts access to timely diagnoses, regular check-ups, and medication management, all critical for COPD patients. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests longer wait times for appointments and potentially less personalized care, negatively impacting the COPD Score. The geographical distribution of these physicians is also important. Are they clustered in one area, leaving other parts of the ZIP code underserved? This spatial analysis is vital for a comprehensive understanding.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. This involves evaluating their experience with COPD management, their adherence to established clinical guidelines, and their commitment to patient education. Do they routinely conduct pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to monitor lung function? Do they provide comprehensive smoking cessation counseling, a cornerstone of COPD treatment? Assessing these aspects requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles, which can be challenging to access directly but are crucial to understanding the COPD Score.

Telemedicine, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like COPD. The adoption rate of telemedicine by primary care practices in Union is a significant factor. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms? Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. A higher adoption rate would positively influence the COPD Score, reflecting a more patient-centered approach.

Mental health is inextricably linked to physical health, and this is especially true for COPD patients. The chronic nature of the disease, its impact on breathing, and the limitations it imposes on daily activities can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a crucial component of the COPD Score. Are there readily accessible mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who specialize in treating patients with chronic illnesses? Do primary care practices have established referral pathways to these resources? A strong network of mental health support significantly improves the overall quality of care for COPD patients.

Another critical aspect of the COPD Score is the availability of specialized respiratory care. While primary care physicians manage the disease, pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) often play a vital role in complex cases. The proximity and accessibility of pulmonologists within a reasonable travel distance are essential. Are there pulmonologists practicing within Union or in nearby towns? If not, how far must patients travel to access specialized care? This geographical consideration impacts the COPD Score, as longer travel times can create barriers to accessing necessary care.

Identifying standout practices within Union is important. These practices may demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care, including patient education, proactive symptom management, and a multidisciplinary approach. They might excel in areas like smoking cessation programs, patient support groups, or partnerships with local pharmacies to ensure medication adherence. Recognizing and highlighting these practices can serve as a model for others, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the community.

Finally, the COPD Score also considers the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to respiratory therapists, who provide education and support on breathing techniques and equipment, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which help patients improve their lung function and overall quality of life. The presence of these services within the community contributes to a higher COPD Score, reflecting a more comprehensive and supportive healthcare environment.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Union, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39365) is a complex assessment that requires a detailed evaluation of primary care physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialized respiratory care, and the presence of ancillary services. The current score likely reflects challenges common in rural areas, including physician shortages and limited access to specialized care. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the strengthening of mental health support can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients in Union.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Union, including physician locations, resource availability, and potential areas for improvement, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a detailed spatial analysis of healthcare data, offering valuable insights into the specific challenges and opportunities within this community.