25059, Dixie, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25059, Dixie, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.52 percent of the residents in 25059 has some form of health insurance. 41.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.25 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 25059 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 25059. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 148 health care providers accessible to residents in 25059, Dixie, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Dixie, WV (ZIP Code 25059)

The analysis focuses on assessing the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients within ZIP code 25059, Dixie, West Virginia. This evaluation considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "COPD Score" analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape for individuals managing this chronic respiratory illness.

Dixie, WV, situated in a rural region, likely faces challenges common to such areas: limited access to specialized care, transportation difficulties, and potentially, a higher prevalence of COPD due to factors like smoking and environmental exposures. Therefore, the analysis must consider these contextual elements.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

A critical aspect of the COPD Score is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically concerning primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists. Precise data on these ratios within 25059 is difficult to obtain without a detailed survey. However, based on general trends in rural West Virginia, it is highly probable that the ratio of PCPs to the overall population is lower than the national average. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, making it challenging for patients to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of COPD. The availability of pulmonologists is likely even more limited, necessitating travel to larger regional centers for specialized respiratory care. This travel burden further complicates care for patients with breathing difficulties.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying "standout practices" requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. In a rural setting, a practice that demonstrates a commitment to COPD management might be recognized for several qualities. These could include providing comprehensive pulmonary function testing, offering patient education programs on disease management and lifestyle modifications, and actively participating in chronic disease management initiatives. Practices integrating electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate care coordination and data-driven decision-making would also stand out. The presence of certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) within a practice would be a significant advantage, allowing for specialized respiratory care and patient education.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in improving COPD care in rural areas. Its potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialist consultations and ongoing monitoring is significant. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms for virtual appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management are demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. Successful telemedicine implementation requires robust internet connectivity, patient education on using the technology, and integration of telemedicine data into the patient's electronic health record. The availability of telehealth services for pulmonary rehabilitation, an essential component of COPD management, would be particularly beneficial.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation due to their illness. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for comprehensive COPD care. The COPD Score will reflect the availability of these services, including the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or readily accessible referrals to external mental health providers. The integration of mental health screenings into routine COPD care is a positive indicator. Additionally, access to support groups, either in-person or virtual, provides patients with valuable peer support and coping mechanisms.

**Specific Considerations for Dixie, WV:**

Given the rural nature of Dixie, WV, the analysis would need to assess the availability of transportation options for patients needing to access healthcare services. Limited public transportation or long travel distances can significantly hinder access to care. The presence of community health centers or mobile health clinics that specifically address the needs of COPD patients would be a significant positive factor. The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors of the population, such as income levels and insurance coverage, as these can impact access to care and adherence to treatment plans.

**Overall COPD Score:**

The final COPD Score for Dixie, WV (25059) would be a composite score reflecting the weighted assessment of the factors discussed above. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater likelihood of positive outcomes for COPD patients. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health resources. This score is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Regular reassessment is essential to monitor progress and identify areas needing attention.

**Call to Action:**

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dixie, WV (25059), and to visualize the availability of resources, including physician locations, healthcare facilities, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps and analytical tools offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed geospatial insights that can empower healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients to make informed decisions and improve COPD care in the region.