25083, Gallagher, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25083, Gallagher, West Virginia is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.44 percent of the residents in 25083 has some form of health insurance. 46.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.27 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 25083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 163 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25083. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 63 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 120 health care providers accessible to residents in 25083, Gallagher, West Virginia.

**COPD Score Analysis: Gallagher, WV (ZIP Code 25083)**

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and the overall healthcare landscape for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Gallagher, West Virginia (ZIP code 25083) requires a nuanced approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive COPD score assessment.

Gallagher, a small community nestled within the Kanawha River Valley, faces challenges common to rural areas, including limited access to healthcare services. The COPD score, therefore, will reflect the realities of this environment. The score will not be a simple numerical value but a qualitative assessment based on the factors outlined below.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In rural areas, this ratio is often significantly higher than in urban centers, meaning fewer physicians are available to serve a larger population. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Gallagher requires up-to-date data, which can fluctuate. However, based on general trends and publicly available information, it is highly probable that the ratio in 25083 is unfavorable, indicating a potential shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity directly impacts the ability of COPD patients to receive timely diagnoses, regular check-ups, and ongoing management of their condition. Delays in care can lead to exacerbations and a decline in overall health.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying "standout practices" in a rural setting like Gallagher involves assessing the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the availability of specialized services. It is important to look for practices that prioritize COPD management. This includes offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing, providing patient education on disease management, and coordinating care with pulmonologists and other specialists. The practices should also have a clear understanding of the local demographics and the specific needs of the COPD population.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. Its adoption in Gallagher is a crucial aspect of the COPD score. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with physicians remotely for consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. This can reduce the need for travel, which can be a significant barrier for individuals with COPD, especially during exacerbations. The availability of telemedicine services, the ease of access, and the quality of the technology are all factors that contribute to the overall COPD score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

COPD is not just a physical illness; it often has a significant impact on mental health. Patients with COPD may experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial. The COPD score will reflect the availability of these resources, including the ability to receive mental health services through telemedicine.

**COPD Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the COPD score for Gallagher, WV (ZIP code 25083) is likely to be below average. The challenges of a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialized services, and the potential lack of readily available mental health resources all contribute to this assessment. The score will be weighed down by the limited availability of primary care physicians. The success of telemedicine adoption and the presence of any standout practices will be important factors in improving the score.

**Specifics and Nuances:**

The specifics of the situation in Gallagher will depend on the data available. The presence of a dedicated pulmonary clinic or a primary care practice with a strong focus on COPD management would significantly improve the score. The availability of home healthcare services, which can provide in-home support and monitoring for COPD patients, would also be a positive factor. Furthermore, the degree to which local healthcare providers collaborate with specialists outside of the area, such as pulmonologists in larger cities, is a crucial factor.

**Conclusion:**

The COPD score for Gallagher, WV (ZIP code 25083) is a reflection of the challenges faced by rural communities in providing comprehensive healthcare. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding access to telemedicine, and increasing the availability of mental health resources. The score underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality for individuals with COPD in this community. The availability of specific COPD support groups or educational programs would also be a positive factor.

**Call to Action:**

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Gallagher, WV, and explore the distribution of healthcare resources in the surrounding area? Use CartoChrome maps to gain valuable insights into physician locations, access to care, and potential areas for improvement.