25164, Procious, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25164, Procious, West Virginia is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.99 percent of the residents in 25164 has some form of health insurance. 58.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.75 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 25164 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 260 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25164. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 227 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12 health care providers accessible to residents in 25164, Procious, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 25164 and Primary Care in Procious, WV

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 25164, encompassing Procious, WV, requires a multi-faceted approach. A COPD Score, while not a formally recognized metric, serves as a useful framework to assess the availability and quality of care for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a prevalent condition in this region. This analysis will delve into physician availability, primary care accessibility, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing a comprehensive picture of the healthcare ecosystem.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. In a rural area like Procious, the density of physicians, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists, can be a significant challenge. Determining the exact ratio within the ZIP code requires accessing data from sources such as the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). However, anecdotal evidence and publicly available information suggest that the ratio likely falls below the national average, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for specialized care. This scarcity of healthcare providers directly impacts the COPD Score, making it inherently lower.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of COPD management. PCPs are crucial for early diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, and medication management. The accessibility of primary care in Procious is another key component of the COPD Score. Factors such as the number of primary care clinics, their operating hours, and their acceptance of various insurance plans influence accessibility. If clinics are limited, have restricted hours, or do not accept a wide range of insurance, the COPD Score is negatively affected. The availability of same-day appointments or walk-in services, especially for acute exacerbations of COPD, also contributes to the overall score.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code or surrounding areas is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in COPD management through various means. This might include employing certified respiratory therapists, offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFTs), or actively participating in COPD-specific educational programs for patients. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, enabling seamless communication between providers and improved medication adherence, would also be considered high-performing. Researching and highlighting these standout practices can elevate the COPD Score by showcasing best practices within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive remote monitoring. The availability of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations with pulmonologists or respiratory therapists, can significantly improve the COPD Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater convenience for patients, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate more frequent check-ins, ultimately leading to better disease management. The availability of reliable internet connectivity in the area is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is vital for COPD patients. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling or psychiatric support, is a crucial component of holistic COPD care. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and provide referrals to mental health professionals can positively impact the COPD Score. Collaboration between primary care providers, pulmonologists, and mental health specialists is essential to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

Evaluating the COPD Score necessitates assessing the availability of specialized resources. These include pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which provide structured exercise and education to improve lung function and quality of life. The presence of respiratory therapists, who are essential for providing education, administering breathing treatments, and monitoring patients' respiratory status, also contributes to the score. Access to smoking cessation programs, which are crucial for preventing disease progression, is another important factor. The availability of these specialized resources directly impacts the COPD Score.

Furthermore, assessing the overall health literacy of the community is essential. Patient education plays a crucial role in COPD management. Practices that provide educational materials, offer group support sessions, and empower patients to actively participate in their care can improve outcomes. The COPD Score is positively influenced by the presence of educational initiatives that focus on medication adherence, proper inhaler technique, and recognizing the early signs of exacerbations.

The impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) cannot be ignored. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and housing stability can significantly affect a patient's ability to manage their COPD. The COPD Score should consider these factors and assess whether healthcare providers are aware of and addressing these challenges. Practices that partner with community organizations to provide support services, such as transportation assistance or financial aid, can positively impact the COPD Score.

In conclusion, evaluating the COPD Score for doctors in ZIP code 25164 and primary care availability in Procious requires a comprehensive assessment. The analysis should consider physician-to-patient ratios, primary care accessibility, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized resources. By examining these factors, a more accurate picture of the healthcare landscape can be obtained. The COPD Score, while not a formal metric, provides a valuable framework for assessing the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing COPD in this rural community.

For a more detailed and visually informative analysis of healthcare access, physician distribution, and other relevant factors in Procious and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.