25102, Handley, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25102, Handley, West Virginia is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.34 percent of the residents in 25102 has some form of health insurance. 49.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.99 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 25102 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 156 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25102. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 59 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 276 health care providers accessible to residents in 25102, Handley, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Handley, WV (ZIP Code 25102)

This analysis assesses the quality of COPD care within ZIP code 25102 (Handley, WV), focusing on primary care physician availability, resource allocation, and overall accessibility for patients. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and offering insights into potential improvements.

Handley, West Virginia, a small community nestled within the Kanawha Valley, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. Rural areas often grapple with physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and socioeconomic factors that can exacerbate chronic conditions like COPD. Evaluating the COPD score requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the presence of physicians but also the quality of care, the utilization of technology, and the availability of supporting services.

**Physician Availability and Patient Ratios**

The physician-to-patient ratio in Handley is a critical indicator of healthcare access. Based on publicly available data and local healthcare directories, the ratio likely falls below the national average. This means fewer primary care physicians are available to serve the population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, is also a significant factor. In rural settings, specialist availability is often limited, forcing patients to travel longer distances for specialized consultations and treatments. This travel burden can further complicate the management of COPD, which requires regular monitoring and adherence to treatment plans.

The analysis must consider the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code. Are physicians concentrated in a specific area, leaving other parts of Handley underserved? Are there any practices that actively recruit and retain physicians, contributing to a more stable healthcare workforce? Data on physician turnover rates can also provide valuable insights into the sustainability of the local healthcare infrastructure.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves assessing various factors, including patient reviews, accreditation status, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive disease management, and effective communication should be recognized. These practices often prioritize patient education, providing resources and support to help individuals manage their COPD effectively.

Quality metrics, such as adherence to COPD treatment guidelines, rates of hospital readmissions, and patient satisfaction scores, can provide a more objective assessment of care quality. Practices that consistently achieve positive outcomes in these areas are likely to be providing superior care. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial aspect. EHRs facilitate better communication between physicians, improve care coordination, and enable the tracking of patient progress.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Advancements**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, can significantly improve COPD management. Remote monitoring allows physicians to track patients' vital signs and symptoms, enabling early intervention and preventing exacerbations.

The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine services within Handley. Are primary care physicians utilizing telemedicine platforms for routine follow-up appointments and medication management? Are there any initiatives to provide patients with the necessary technology and training to participate in telemedicine programs? The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors such as internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing healthcare workflows.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care**

COPD is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Depression, anxiety, and social isolation are common among individuals with COPD. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is crucial for comprehensive care. The analysis should investigate the presence of mental health providers, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, within Handley.

Integrated care models, which combine medical and mental health services, are particularly beneficial for COPD patients. These models facilitate collaboration between healthcare providers, ensuring that patients receive holistic care that addresses both their physical and mental health needs. The analysis should assess whether any local practices are implementing integrated care models or collaborating with mental health providers to support their patients.

**Specifics within Handley, WV**

Due to the limitations of publicly available data, a precise COPD score for Handley is challenging to calculate. However, based on general knowledge of rural healthcare and publicly available information, the score is likely to be moderate, with room for significant improvement. The physician-to-patient ratio is a major concern, potentially leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Telemedicine adoption may be limited due to infrastructural challenges and patient access. Mental health resources might be scarce, necessitating patients to travel outside the community for specialized care.

The success of COPD care in Handley hinges on several factors. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians and specialists is paramount. Expanding telemedicine capabilities can improve access to care, particularly for patients in remote areas. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices can address the psychological impact of COPD. Patient education and support programs can empower individuals to manage their condition effectively. Finally, improving internet access throughout the community will unlock telemedicine’s full potential.

**Conclusion**

Improving COPD care in Handley, WV, requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. Addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health resources are crucial steps towards enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Handley, WV, and explore the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.