02859, Pascoag, Rhode Island COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02859, Pascoag, Rhode Island is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.73 percent of the residents in 02859 has some form of health insurance. 21.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.22 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 02859 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,453 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02859. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 851 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,531 health care providers accessible to residents in 02859, Pascoag, Rhode Island.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02859 & Primary Care in Pascoag

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians specializing in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within ZIP code 02859 (Pascoag, Rhode Island) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components for effective COPD management. The goal is to provide a COPD score, reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals in this specific geographic area.

The first crucial element is physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists actively practicing in 02859, and their patient load, is essential. This information is often available through state medical licensing boards, insurance provider directories, and online physician databases. However, it's important to recognize that these sources may not always be completely up-to-date. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient, potentially impacting the quality of COPD care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more comprehensive patient management. The specific ratio itself, and how it compares to regional and national averages, will significantly influence the COPD score.

Beyond the raw numbers, identifying standout practices is vital. This involves researching practices that have a demonstrated commitment to COPD care. This research includes looking for practices that have invested in specialized equipment, such as pulmonary function testing (PFT) machines, and have staff trained in COPD management. Practices that participate in clinical trials or actively implement evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), are also strong indicators of quality. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the doctor-patient relationship and the overall level of support offered. These practices, if identified, would contribute positively to the overall COPD score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for managing COPD, especially in rural areas like Pascoag. It allows for remote monitoring of patients' symptoms, medication adjustments, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering services such as virtual check-ups, remote monitoring of oxygen saturation levels, and telehealth education programs, would receive a higher score. The type of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of these services into the overall care plan are all important considerations.

The availability of mental health resources is frequently overlooked, yet it is a crucial component of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD management programs, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, would receive a higher score. This includes access to therapists specializing in chronic illness management, support groups, and educational resources addressing the psychological aspects of COPD. The presence of these resources demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, addressing not only the physical symptoms of COPD but also the emotional and psychological challenges associated with the disease.

To calculate the COPD score, these factors are weighted and combined. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant factor, reflecting the basic accessibility of care. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources would then be factored in, adding to the overall score. Each factor's weight would depend on its perceived importance in providing comprehensive and effective COPD care. The final score would be a numerical representation of the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care within ZIP code 02859. This score could be used to benchmark the area's performance against other regions and to identify areas for improvement.

The analysis would also consider the specific challenges faced by the Pascoag community. The rural nature of the area may present challenges in accessing specialized care and transportation. The socioeconomic demographics of the population, including factors such as income and insurance coverage, would also be considered, as these factors can impact access to care and treatment adherence. Addressing these challenges would be essential for improving the COPD score and ensuring that all patients receive the care they need.

In conclusion, a thorough analysis of COPD care in 02859, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, will produce a meaningful COPD score. This score provides a valuable snapshot of the current state of care and identifies areas for improvement. It is a complex assessment that requires data collection and analysis from various sources. The ultimate goal is to improve the lives of individuals living with COPD in Pascoag by ensuring access to high-quality, comprehensive care.

For a visual representation of the physician locations, their services, and the surrounding infrastructure, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually display the data, allowing for a spatial analysis of the availability and accessibility of COPD care in the Pascoag area.