25243, Gandeeville, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25243, Gandeeville, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.08 percent of the residents in 25243 has some form of health insurance. 68.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.36 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 25243 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 89 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25243. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 210 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 202 health care providers accessible to residents in 25243, Gandeeville, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Gandeeville, WV (ZIP Code 25243)

Gandeeville, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Calhoun County, presents a unique challenge when assessing its capacity to manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The ZIP code 25243 encompasses a predominantly rural area, characterized by an aging population and a history of coal mining, factors that significantly contribute to COPD prevalence. A comprehensive analysis of the available healthcare resources, particularly primary care physicians, is crucial to understanding the community's ability to effectively address this debilitating respiratory illness. This analysis will delve into the current state of primary care access, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and overall COPD management capabilities within the specified geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Gandeeville is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In rural areas, the scarcity of physicians is a well-documented issue. Precise data on the physician-to-patient ratio specifically within ZIP code 25243 is challenging to obtain due to data privacy and the dynamic nature of medical staffing. However, publicly available information suggests that Calhoun County, in general, faces a shortage of primary care physicians. This means that patients may experience longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive care, and increased reliance on emergency room services, especially for chronic conditions like COPD. The scarcity of specialists, such as pulmonologists, further exacerbates the problem, requiring patients to travel considerable distances for specialized care.

Identifying standout practices within Gandeeville is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management, including early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment plans, and patient education, deserve recognition. These practices often employ strategies to improve patient outcomes, such as implementing COPD action plans, offering pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and ensuring regular monitoring of lung function. However, due to the limited number of practices in the area, the presence of such specialized services might be scarce. A comprehensive review of available healthcare providers, including their specific services and patient reviews, is essential to identify these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to address the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education, can significantly improve COPD management. Telemedicine allows patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and minimizing exposure to potential infections. The availability of telemedicine services in Gandeeville, however, depends on several factors, including internet connectivity, physician willingness to adopt telehealth platforms, and patient access to technology. Assessing the current level of telemedicine adoption and identifying barriers to its implementation is a crucial aspect of evaluating the community's COPD management capabilities.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges due to the physical limitations and social isolation associated with the disease. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. The availability of these resources in Gandeeville needs to be assessed. The lack of mental health support can negatively impact patient outcomes, increasing the risk of exacerbations, hospitalizations, and a reduced quality of life.

The overall COPD management capabilities in Gandeeville are influenced by various factors, including access to primary care, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The community's ability to effectively manage COPD depends on the coordinated efforts of healthcare providers, community organizations, and the patients themselves. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, smoking cessation resources, and patient education materials are essential components of a comprehensive COPD management strategy. Furthermore, the implementation of evidence-based guidelines and best practices can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of COPD on the community.

The analysis of COPD management in Gandeeville also needs to consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, limited access to transportation, and a lack of health insurance can create significant barriers to accessing healthcare services. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial to improving COPD management and promoting health equity. Community-based interventions, such as outreach programs, transportation assistance, and financial support, can help overcome these barriers and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.

In conclusion, the COPD score for Gandeeville, WV (ZIP code 25243) is likely to be lower than the national average due to the challenges associated with rural healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio, the limited number of specialists, and the potential lack of mental health resources all contribute to a less-than-ideal environment for COPD management. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the implementation of community-based interventions can help improve access to care and enhance patient outcomes. Further investigation into the specific practices and resources available in the area is necessary to develop targeted strategies for improving COPD management.

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare access and resource availability in Gandeeville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital data, and demographic information, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.