24963, Peterstown, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 24963, Peterstown, West Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.28 percent of the residents in 24963 has some form of health insurance. 48.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.07 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 24963 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 748 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24963. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 673 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 60 health care providers accessible to residents in 24963, Peterstown, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Peterstown, WV (ZIP Code 24963)

Analyzing the availability and quality of COPD care in Peterstown, West Virginia (ZIP code 24963) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the number of physicians but also the accessibility of care, the integration of technology, and the availability of supporting services, particularly mental health resources, crucial for managing a chronic respiratory condition. This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

Peterstown, a small community, likely presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate and are often difficult to obtain for specific ZIP codes, we can infer certain realities. Given the rural nature of the area, it is probable that the physician-to-patient ratio is less favorable than in more urban settings. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a potentially dispersed population, increasing the likelihood of longer wait times for appointments and reduced overall access to care.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of COPD management. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing respiratory symptoms. They are responsible for diagnosis, initial treatment, and ongoing management. In Peterstown, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive timely and appropriate care. A scarcity of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, exacerbations of the disease, and increased hospitalizations. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants can partially offset the impact of a limited number of PCPs, expanding the capacity for primary care services.

Identifying standout practices within the 24963 ZIP code requires a closer look at individual clinics and their approaches to COPD care. We need to consider factors such as the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFT), and the integration of patient education programs. Practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources on medication adherence, smoking cessation, and breathing techniques, are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The presence of specialized respiratory therapists or certified COPD educators within a practice significantly enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in assessing the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for expanding access to care, especially in rural areas. It enables patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. The adoption of telemedicine can be assessed by examining the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more frequent check-ins, monitor patient symptoms more closely, and intervene proactively to prevent exacerbations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are integral to the well-being of patients. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, impacting quality of life. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is therefore essential. The COPD Score assessment must consider the presence of mental health professionals within the community, the integration of mental health screening into primary care, and the referral pathways to mental health services.

Specific practices in Peterstown may demonstrate commendable efforts in COPD care. For instance, a clinic that actively participates in community outreach programs, educating residents about COPD prevention and early detection, would receive a higher score. Another practice that utilizes a comprehensive electronic health record system, enabling seamless communication between providers and patients, would also be highly regarded. The presence of a dedicated COPD clinic or a specialized pulmonary practice within a reasonable driving distance would significantly boost the overall COPD Score.

The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is another critical factor. These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support to help patients improve their lung function, manage their symptoms, and enhance their quality of life. The presence of a pulmonary rehabilitation program within the community or a neighboring area is a significant positive indicator.

The overall COPD Score for Peterstown, WV (24963) is likely to be impacted by several factors. The limited number of physicians, particularly PCPs, may negatively affect the score. The rural setting might present challenges in accessing specialized care, such as pulmonary rehabilitation. However, practices that embrace telemedicine, integrate mental health services, and prioritize patient education can significantly improve the score. The presence of community support groups and resources can also enhance the overall assessment.

In conclusion, improving the COPD Score in Peterstown requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes increasing the number of healthcare providers, expanding access to specialized care, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health services. The focus on patient education and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines are crucial for improving patient outcomes. The community's ability to adapt and innovate will determine the future of COPD care in Peterstown.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Peterstown, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the demographics of the population, we recommend exploring the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you analyze healthcare access and identify areas for improvement.