24724, Freeman, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 24724, Freeman, West Virginia is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.67 percent of the residents in 24724 has some form of health insurance. 84.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.96 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 24724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 38 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,412 health care providers accessible to residents in 24724, Freeman, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Freeman, WV (ZIP Code 24724)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Freeman, West Virginia (ZIP Code 24724), requires a nuanced understanding of its primary care resources, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis aims to provide a COPD Score assessment, evaluating the availability and quality of care for individuals managing this debilitating respiratory condition. This score considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive COPD management.

Freeman, like many rural communities, likely faces challenges in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly impact access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of COPD. National averages provide a benchmark, but the specific ratio within 24724 needs to be determined through local data analysis. This involves identifying the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. A shortage of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, can lead to delayed diagnoses and inadequate specialized care for COPD patients.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. These practices might demonstrate excellence in COPD management through various means. This could include employing certified respiratory therapists, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools like pulmonary function testing (PFT), and adhering to established COPD treatment guidelines. Practices that offer comprehensive patient education programs, including smoking cessation support and self-management strategies, would also score highly. The presence of dedicated COPD clinics or specialized programs further indicates a commitment to providing quality care. Researching local healthcare providers' websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups can help identify these standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with remote access to specialists and ongoing care. For COPD patients, this can translate to virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management. The availability of telemedicine services, including the types of platforms used and the frequency of use, is a key factor in the COPD Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health is also critical in COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD management programs demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This includes screening for mental health issues, providing referrals to mental health professionals, and fostering a supportive environment for patients. The COPD Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these crucial mental health resources.

Assessing the COPD Score involves a weighted evaluation of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio would carry significant weight, reflecting the fundamental access to care. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources would contribute to the overall score, reflecting the quality and comprehensiveness of care. The specific weighting of each factor would depend on its relative importance in providing effective COPD management. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio could be partially offset by the presence of robust telemedicine services and readily available mental health support.

The analysis should also consider the availability of resources for COPD patients outside of physician practices. This includes access to pharmacies that carry necessary medications, respiratory therapists who can provide home care, and support groups that offer peer-to-peer assistance. The proximity and accessibility of these resources contribute to the overall COPD Score, reflecting the ease with which patients can access the care and support they need.

Finally, analyzing the COPD Score also requires considering the demographics of the population within ZIP Code 24724. The prevalence of COPD varies based on factors such as age, smoking history, and environmental exposures. Understanding the specific demographics of the population within Freeman can help tailor the COPD Score analysis to the specific needs of the community. For example, a higher proportion of older adults or individuals with a history of smoking would likely indicate a greater need for COPD-related services.

In conclusion, a comprehensive COPD Score analysis for Freeman, WV (ZIP Code 24724) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. This analysis also requires considering the availability of other support services and the specific demographics of the population. By understanding these factors, a more accurate and relevant COPD Score can be developed, providing valuable insights into the healthcare landscape and highlighting areas for improvement.

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