02919, Johnston, Rhode Island COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02919, Johnston, Rhode Island is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.72 percent of the residents in 02919 has some form of health insurance. 36.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.18 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 02919 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,664 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02919. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,022 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,616 health care providers accessible to residents in 02919, Johnston, Rhode Island.

**COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care in Johnston, RI (ZIP Code 02919)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Johnston, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02919) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the current landscape, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, culminating in a COPD Score assessment.

Johnston, a suburban community, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The demographics, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, influence the prevalence of COPD and, consequently, the demand for specialized care. The analysis will consider these contextual elements.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care**

A critical indicator of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the general availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Johnston is paramount. Data from sources like the Rhode Island Department of Health and publicly available databases will be used to estimate this ratio. A lower ratio (more patients per physician) indicates potential challenges in scheduling appointments, timely access to care, and the overall ability of patients to receive consistent medical attention.

The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, within or easily accessible to Johnston residents is also crucial. COPD management often requires a collaborative approach between PCPs and specialists. Accessibility to these specialists directly impacts the quality of care received. Travel time to specialist offices, insurance coverage acceptance, and appointment wait times will be factored into the assessment.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying primary care practices that excel in COPD management is essential. This involves researching practices within ZIP code 02919 and its immediate vicinity. Factors to consider include:

* **Experience and Expertise:** Practices with physicians who demonstrate a strong understanding of COPD guidelines, treatment protocols, and patient education.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Online reviews, patient testimonials, and surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the effectiveness of treatment plans.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can indicate a commitment to quality care and adherence to established standards.
* **Chronic Disease Management Programs:** Practices that offer structured COPD management programs, including regular check-ups, medication management, and patient education, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.
* **Collaboration with Specialists:** Practices that actively collaborate with pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.

The analysis will highlight practices that demonstrate these characteristics, emphasizing their impact on patient outcomes and overall community health.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, especially for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. Its adoption in Johnston will be assessed, focusing on:

* **Availability of Telemedicine Services:** Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management through telemedicine platforms.
* **Ease of Use and Technology Integration:** The user-friendliness of telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of these platforms with electronic health records (EHRs).
* **Patient Satisfaction with Telemedicine:** Feedback from patients regarding their experiences with telemedicine, including convenience, accessibility, and the quality of care received.
* **Reimbursement Policies:** The extent to which telemedicine services are covered by insurance plans in the area.

The analysis will evaluate the extent to which telemedicine is utilized to improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing a Crucial Need**

COPD can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. The assessment will consider:

* **Availability of Mental Health Professionals:** The number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors available in Johnston and the surrounding areas.
* **Integration of Mental Health Services:** The extent to which primary care practices collaborate with mental health professionals to provide integrated care.
* **Access to Support Groups and Counseling:** The availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources for patients with COPD and their families.
* **Awareness and Education:** Efforts to raise awareness about the link between COPD and mental health and to educate patients about available resources.

The analysis will highlight practices and community organizations that prioritize mental health support for COPD patients.

**COPD Score Assessment**

Based on the evaluation of the factors discussed above, a COPD Score will be assigned to the primary care landscape in Johnston, RI (ZIP code 02919). This score will reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of care available to individuals managing COPD. The score will be based on a scale, with higher scores indicating a more favorable environment for COPD management. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, summarizing the key findings of the analysis.

**Call to Action**

Understanding the healthcare landscape is the first step towards improving it. To visualize the data, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations provided by CartoChrome. These resources can provide a deeper understanding of the factors influencing COPD care in Johnston, RI, and empower you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.