25139, Mount Carbon, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25139, Mount Carbon, West Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25139 has some form of health insurance. 97.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 2.96 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 25139 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 81 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25139. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 113 health care providers accessible to residents in 25139, Mount Carbon, West Virginia.

The analysis below assesses the quality of COPD care and primary care availability within the context of ZIP Code 25139, encompassing Mount Carbon, West Virginia. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in managing chronic respiratory conditions like COPD.

The physician-to-patient ratio in a rural area like Mount Carbon presents a significant challenge. The limited number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists serving the population translates to a higher patient load per doctor. This can lead to reduced appointment availability, shorter consultation times, and potentially less personalized care for individuals managing COPD. The impact is particularly acute for those with limited mobility or transportation options, making accessing care even more difficult.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing specific, up-to-date data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau. However, the general trend in rural areas suggests a scarcity of medical professionals, which contributes to a lower overall COPD Score. The ability to secure timely appointments for exacerbations, routine check-ups, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is directly affected by the physician-to-patient ratio.

Identifying "standout practices" in Mount Carbon requires a more nuanced assessment. This includes evaluating factors beyond the basic presence of physicians. Are there practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education about COPD management, including proper inhaler technique, lifestyle modifications, and the importance of medication adherence? Do they offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFTs) on-site? Do they have dedicated respiratory therapists who provide patient education and support?

Furthermore, a standout practice would likely emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care with specialists such as cardiologists (as COPD often coexists with cardiovascular issues) and mental health professionals (as the psychological impact of COPD can be significant). The presence of a robust patient portal, allowing for easy communication, prescription refills, and access to educational materials, would also be a key indicator of a high-quality practice. Without specific data on practices in 25139, it is challenging to pinpoint such standout entities.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor influencing the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the geographical barriers that patients in Mount Carbon face. Remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and online support groups can improve access to care, particularly for those who struggle to travel to in-person appointments.

The degree of telemedicine adoption varies greatly. Some practices may utilize telemedicine for follow-up appointments or medication management, while others may have yet to embrace this technology. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a determining factor. The COPD Score will be higher for practices that actively utilize telemedicine to enhance patient care and improve accessibility.

The availability of mental health resources is crucial for patients with COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with its impact on daily life and physical limitations, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. A practice with a strong COPD Score will actively screen patients for mental health concerns and offer access to counseling, support groups, or psychiatric services.

This could involve having a mental health professional on staff, partnering with local mental health providers, or providing referrals to appropriate resources. The ability to address the psychological aspects of COPD is essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. The absence of these resources would negatively affect the overall COPD Score.

Evaluating the COPD Score in Mount Carbon, ZIP Code 25139, requires a comprehensive assessment based on the factors discussed above. The limited physician-to-patient ratio, the need for more widespread telemedicine adoption, and the importance of readily available mental health resources all play a critical role in determining the quality of care.

The COPD Score will likely be lower than in more urban areas with greater access to medical professionals and resources. However, the presence of dedicated practices committed to patient education, comprehensive care, and the integration of mental health services can significantly improve the score.

To gain a more complete understanding of the landscape of healthcare in Mount Carbon and surrounding areas, it is essential to gather specific data. This includes the number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists, the types of services offered by local practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support.

CartoChrome maps can be a valuable tool in this process. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize geographic data. Using CartoChrome, one could map the location of healthcare providers, plot physician-to-patient ratios, and identify areas with limited access to care. This information can inform healthcare planning and resource allocation, leading to improved outcomes for individuals managing COPD and other chronic conditions.

To gain a more precise understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Carbon and surrounding areas, and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, consider using CartoChrome maps. Explore the possibilities of visualizing healthcare access and resource availability.