25248, Kenna, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25248, Kenna, West Virginia is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.81 percent of the residents in 25248 has some form of health insurance. 36.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.07 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 25248 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 690 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25248. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 801 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 270 health care providers accessible to residents in 25248, Kenna, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Kenna, WV (ZIP Code 25248)

Analyzing the quality of COPD care and primary care accessibility within Kenna, West Virginia (ZIP code 25248) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, a 'COPD Score' assessment, considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, crucial elements in managing a chronic respiratory condition. The goal is to provide an understanding of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of any COPD management strategy is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Kenna, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures are difficult to obtain without access to proprietary databases, publicly available data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) can provide estimates. These sources, along with local hospital and clinic information, are essential for this analysis. If the ratio is unfavorable, it suggests a potential shortage of PCPs, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments for COPD patients.

Furthermore, the types of practices available in Kenna are important. Are the practices solo, small group, or part of a larger network? Larger networks may offer greater resources, including access to specialists (pulmonologists, respiratory therapists), advanced diagnostic equipment, and integrated care management programs. Solo practices, while offering personalized care, may have fewer resources. The 'COPD Score' would consider the presence of specialists, the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFTs), and the integration of respiratory therapists within the practice.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The 'COPD Score' evaluates the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Practices that offer telehealth options score higher, as they provide greater convenience and potentially improve adherence to treatment plans. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of vital signs, allowing for proactive intervention and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

Mental health resources are another critical component of the 'COPD Score'. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices or through referrals. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive higher scores. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups.

Standout practices within Kenna, if any, would be identified based on the criteria above. These practices would likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD management. This might involve a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating respiratory therapists, nurses, and mental health professionals. They would likely embrace telemedicine, offer patient education programs, and actively monitor patient outcomes. These practices would be seen as leaders in the community, providing high-quality care and serving as a model for others.

The 'COPD Score' also considers the availability of patient education materials. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies score higher. This includes providing written materials, online resources, and access to support groups. Patient education empowers individuals to take an active role in their care, leading to better outcomes.

The analysis also considers the integration of care coordination. Practices that have care coordinators who assist patients with navigating the healthcare system, scheduling appointments, and coordinating care with specialists receive higher scores. Care coordination helps to streamline the care process, reduce fragmentation, and improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the 'COPD Score' assesses the practice's commitment to preventive care. This includes offering vaccinations (e.g., flu, pneumonia) and providing smoking cessation counseling. Practices that prioritize preventive care are better equipped to manage COPD and prevent exacerbations.

The 'COPD Score' is not just a numerical ranking. It's a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Kenna, WV, providing valuable insights into the quality and accessibility of COPD care. It identifies strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The score can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions and improve the health of the community.

The impact of the local hospital is crucial. The presence of a hospital in or near Kenna, with a dedicated respiratory care unit and pulmonologists, significantly improves the 'COPD Score'. The hospital's ability to handle acute exacerbations and provide specialized care is essential.

The 'COPD Score' would also examine the availability of home healthcare services. These services can provide support to patients in their homes, assisting with medication management, respiratory therapy, and other needs. Practices that collaborate with home healthcare agencies receive higher scores.

Finally, the 'COPD Score' would incorporate patient feedback. Gathering patient experiences through surveys or interviews provides valuable insights into the quality of care. This feedback can be used to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that the healthcare system is meeting the needs of the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Kenna, WV, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geospatial data, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare environment.