24854, Kopperston, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 24854, Kopperston, West Virginia is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.12 percent of the residents in 24854 has some form of health insurance. 81.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 31.28 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 24854 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 225 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24854. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 114 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 111 health care providers accessible to residents in 24854, Kopperston, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Kopperston, WV (ZIP Code 24854)

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within Kopperston, West Virginia (ZIP code 24854), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, aims to provide a COPD Score assessment, a relative measure of the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing this debilitating respiratory illness. The data, while striving for accuracy, is based on publicly available information and may not reflect real-time changes.

Kopperston, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: limited access to specialized medical care and potentially longer travel times for appointments. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. While precise figures are difficult to ascertain without direct access to state medical board data, the overall physician density in the region is expected to be lower than national averages. This means that the existing primary care physicians (PCPs) in the area may be managing a larger patient load, potentially impacting the time they can dedicate to each patient, including those with COPD.

The availability of primary care is the cornerstone of COPD management. Regular check-ups, medication management, and patient education are vital components of effective care. Assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of PCPs actively practicing in the area, their acceptance of new patients, and the average wait times for appointments. This information, often gleaned from online physician directories and patient reviews, will provide insight into the accessibility of primary care. A low COPD Score would be assigned if there is a scarcity of PCPs or lengthy wait times.

Standout practices, if any, would be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care. This could include practices that employ specialized respiratory therapists, offer pulmonary function testing (PFT) on-site, and actively participate in COPD education programs. Practices that have implemented patient-centered care models, focusing on shared decision-making and individualized treatment plans, would also be viewed favorably. Furthermore, practices that actively monitor patients' adherence to medication regimens and provide support for smoking cessation would be highly regarded. The presence of such practices would positively influence the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in bridging the geographical gap and improving access to care, particularly for rural populations. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and remote monitoring of vital signs would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving patients time and travel expenses, and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telehealth services for COPD management directly impacts the COPD Score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of COPD care. The chronic nature of the illness, coupled with breathing difficulties, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are vital. The availability of mental health support directly impacts the COPD Score, as it reflects a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The COPD Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care in Kopperston. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare ecosystem with sufficient primary care availability, specialized resources, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. A low score would signal areas for improvement, such as increasing physician density, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and strengthening mental health services.

The evaluation of practices within the area requires a thorough review of online directories, patient reviews, and practice websites. This is often a time-consuming process, but it is essential for a comprehensive assessment. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists within the area, or access to such specialists through referral networks, is also a crucial factor. The availability of specialized respiratory care is essential for patients with severe COPD.

The analysis must also consider the demographic characteristics of the population. Kopperston, as a rural community, may have a higher prevalence of COPD due to factors such as smoking rates and exposure to environmental pollutants. The analysis should account for these factors when assessing the overall quality of care.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of patient education materials and support groups. Access to reliable information about COPD, its management, and available resources is essential for empowering patients to take an active role in their care. The presence of local support groups or online resources can help patients connect with others who are managing the same condition, reducing feelings of isolation and improving their overall well-being.

The evaluation of practices must consider their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for COPD management. This includes the use of appropriate medications, the implementation of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the provision of smoking cessation support. Practices that follow these guidelines are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Kopperston, WV (ZIP code 24854) is a complex metric that requires careful consideration of various factors. While specific figures and rankings are beyond the scope of this analysis, the assessment emphasizes the importance of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the COPD care landscape in Kopperston, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement.

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