24853, Kimball, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 24853, Kimball, West Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.82 percent of the residents in 24853 has some form of health insurance. 78.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 25.68 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 24853 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 24853. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 106 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 458 health care providers accessible to residents in 24853, Kimball, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Kimball, WV (ZIP Code 24853)

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care and associated resources for individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Kimball, West Virginia (ZIP Code 24853). We will assess the local landscape, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, culminating in a COPD Score assessment.

Kimball, a small community nestled within McDowell County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The area historically has had significant economic hardship and a higher prevalence of risk factors associated with COPD, such as smoking and exposure to coal dust. This reality necessitates a thorough examination of the resources available to manage and treat this debilitating respiratory illness.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a crucial first step. Unfortunately, reliable, granular data specific to ZIP Code 24853 is often difficult to obtain. We must rely on broader county-level statistics and extrapolate. McDowell County, in general, experiences a significant shortage of primary care physicians compared to the national average. This scarcity translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care – all detrimental to COPD management. A low physician-to-patient ratio significantly impacts the COPD Score negatively.

The presence of primary care practices is another key indicator. The quality and accessibility of these practices directly influence the care available to COPD patients. In Kimball, the options are limited. The presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or a rural health clinic would be a significant advantage, providing access to a wider range of services, including chronic disease management programs and potentially subsidized care. The absence of such a facility would further depress the COPD Score.

Analyzing the characteristics of existing practices is vital. Do they offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFTs)? Are they equipped to administer and monitor inhaled medications effectively? Do they have established protocols for COPD exacerbation management, including rapid access to oxygen and other necessary interventions? The availability of these services directly affects the ability of patients to receive timely and appropriate care. Practices with robust COPD management programs will contribute positively to the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas with limited access to healthcare. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management support, can significantly improve access to care for COPD patients. This is particularly valuable for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer telemedicine will positively impact the COPD Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but they are critical. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, including therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for providing holistic care. Does the local healthcare system have integrated behavioral health services? Are there referrals to mental health specialists available? The availability of mental health support will positively influence the COPD Score.

Standout practices, if any exist, deserve special recognition. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality COPD care, implementing innovative programs, and actively engaging with their patients. Identifying these practices and highlighting their best practices can serve as a model for other providers in the area. The presence of standout practices would significantly improve the COPD Score.

The overall COPD Score for Kimball, WV (24853) is likely to be low. The combination of factors, including a low physician-to-patient ratio, limited primary care options, the potential absence of specialized COPD programs, the need for improved telemedicine adoption, and the importance of mental health services, all contribute to a challenging healthcare environment for COPD patients. While specific data is limited, the general trends suggest a need for significant improvements in healthcare access and resources.

The COPD Score is a complex assessment based on several factors. The score is negatively impacted by the limited number of primary care physicians, the potential lack of specialized COPD programs, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption. The score is positively impacted by practices with robust COPD management programs, the availability of mental health support, and the presence of any standout practices.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kimball, WV (24853), including the precise location of primary care practices, the availability of specific services, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, enabling you to identify healthcare resources, assess accessibility, and gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing COPD patients in this community.