25635, Man, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25635, Man, West Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.33 percent of the residents in 25635 has some form of health insurance. 57.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.12 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 25635 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 541 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25635. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 148 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 548 health care providers accessible to residents in 25635, Man, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Man, WV (ZIP Code 25635)

The analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Man, West Virginia (ZIP code 25635), with a particular emphasis on their ability to manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and identifies potential standout practices. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in this specific geographic area.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial first step. ZIP code 25635 is located in Logan County, a rural area. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, potentially leading to a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to urban centers. This can result in longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. Gathering data on the actual number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size is essential for determining the physician-to-patient ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine, combined with census data, would be required for this calculation. A low ratio could indicate a significant hurdle for COPD patients seeking timely and consistent care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by PCPs is paramount. This involves evaluating their experience and expertise in managing COPD. This is a complex task. Direct observation of clinical practice is impossible for this analysis. Instead, we must rely on indirect measures. One important factor is the board certification status of the physicians. Board certification in internal medicine or family medicine suggests a commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to the highest standards of care. Another factor is the availability of specialized equipment and diagnostic tools within the practices. Access to spirometry, a crucial diagnostic tool for COPD, is essential. Furthermore, the ability to perform other relevant tests, such as arterial blood gas analysis, should be considered.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical aspect of COPD care in a rural setting. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, monitoring, and education from the comfort of their homes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management. This is especially important for COPD patients, who may experience difficulty traveling to appointments, particularly during exacerbations. Identifying practices that actively utilize telemedicine is crucial for determining the accessibility of care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the management of chronic diseases like COPD, but are very important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health support services, either within the primary care practice or through referrals to external providers, is a crucial factor. Practices that integrate mental health screening and offer access to therapists, counselors, or support groups demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This is a critical element in improving patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Identifying standout practices in ZIP code 25635 requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, board certification, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Practices that excel in multiple areas, demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, should be recognized. This could involve practices that have a high physician-to-patient ratio, board-certified physicians, actively use telemedicine, and provide access to mental health services. These practices would represent the best options for COPD patients in the area.

The availability of specialized pulmonology services also needs consideration. While PCPs are the primary point of contact for COPD management, access to pulmonologists is essential for patients with complex cases or those requiring advanced interventions. The distance to the nearest pulmonology clinic or specialist is a significant factor. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which provide structured exercise and education, is also a key indicator of the quality of COPD care.

Furthermore, the presence of patient education programs is essential. Practices that offer educational materials, such as brochures, videos, or online resources, empower patients to actively participate in their care. Education about medication adherence, proper inhaler technique, and lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation, is crucial for managing COPD effectively. Practices that prioritize patient education demonstrate a commitment to improving patient outcomes.

The overall assessment of COPD care in ZIP code 25635 reveals a complex landscape. The rural nature of the area presents unique challenges, including potential limitations in physician availability and access to specialized services. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources are vital components of effective COPD management in this setting. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, including access to specialized equipment, patient education, and mental health support, should be recognized as leaders in providing quality care. The overall quality of care is dependent on many factors.

The information gathered in this analysis can be further enhanced by visual representation. CartoChrome maps can be used to visualize the distribution of PCPs, the location of specialized services, and the availability of mental health resources within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. This visual representation can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape, aiding patients in making informed decisions about their care. The interactive nature of CartoChrome maps allows for easy exploration and analysis of the data, empowering users to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available to them.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the availability and quality of primary care for COPD patients in Man, WV. The identification of specific practices and the assessment of key factors, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

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