25118, Kimberly, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25118, Kimberly, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.48 percent of the residents in 25118 has some form of health insurance. 38.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.95 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 25118 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 77 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25118. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 115 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 82 health care providers accessible to residents in 25118, Kimberly, West Virginia.

This analysis assesses the quality of COPD care and primary care availability within ZIP code 25118 (Kimberly, West Virginia), focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘COPD Score’ analysis, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike. This analysis does not constitute medical advice.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Kimberly, 25118, is a crucial starting point. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to a higher patient-to-physician ratio. While precise, real-time data is difficult to obtain without direct access to state licensing boards and insurance claims data, publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources can provide estimates. These resources should be consulted to determine the actual ratio. A higher ratio suggests potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care, especially for chronic conditions like COPD. A lower ratio, conversely, indicates greater accessibility.

Assessing the quality of COPD care involves evaluating several factors. The availability of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists is paramount. Are there specialists practicing within or near Kimberly? The presence of certified respiratory educators (CREs) is also a strong indicator of quality. CREs play a critical role in patient education, self-management training, and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, is another key element. These programs can significantly improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for COPD patients.

Identifying standout practices requires examining their approach to COPD management. Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines? Are they proactive in screening for COPD and other respiratory illnesses? Do they offer comprehensive diagnostic testing, including spirometry and chest imaging? Do they have systems in place to monitor patients' disease progression and adjust treatment plans accordingly? Practices that prioritize patient education, offer personalized care, and actively participate in quality improvement initiatives are likely to provide superior COPD care. Information on practice performance can be found via patient reviews, and through the West Virginia Board of Medicine.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access specialists and receive care remotely. The availability of telehealth consultations for COPD management, including medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and pulmonary rehabilitation support, is a significant advantage. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, and enhance patient convenience. The adoption rate of telemedicine can be determined by contacting the practices directly.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is essential for addressing these challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care programs demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The presence of mental health professionals on staff or readily available referral networks are key indicators.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is fundamental to overall healthcare access in Kimberly. PCPs serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. A sufficient supply of PCPs is crucial for ensuring that residents have access to timely and appropriate care. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of PCPs in the area, their patient load, and their acceptance of new patients. The West Virginia Medical Association can provide information on PCP listings in the area.

The ‘COPD Score’ for doctors in ZIP code 25118 is complex and multifaceted. It requires considering the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score is not a single number but rather a composite assessment reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care. The score should be updated regularly to reflect changes in healthcare delivery and patient needs.

The analysis of primary care availability in Kimberly, 25118, should be considered separately. The availability of PCPs and their capacity to serve the population directly impacts access to care for all residents, including those with COPD. The evaluation should consider the number of PCPs, their patient load, and their acceptance of new patients.

To fully assess the healthcare landscape in Kimberly, it is important to consult multiple sources of information. Publicly available data from HRSA, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, and the West Virginia Board of Medicine can provide valuable insights. Patient reviews, practice websites, and direct communication with healthcare providers can also offer valuable information.

For a comprehensive, visual understanding of healthcare resources and access in Kimberly, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow for the visualization of healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and access to care indicators. This information can be overlaid with demographic data, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of healthcare disparities and access challenges. CartoChrome maps can be used to identify areas where resources are lacking and to inform healthcare planning and resource allocation decisions.