25702, Huntington, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25702, Huntington, West Virginia is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.37 percent of the residents in 25702 has some form of health insurance. 58.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.09 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 25702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,390 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25702. An estimate of 10 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,322 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,334 health care providers accessible to residents in 25702, Huntington, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Huntington, WV (ZIP Code 25702)

This analysis assesses the landscape of COPD care within Huntington, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25702), focusing on primary care availability, physician resources, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. The goal is to provide a COPD Score, a qualitative understanding of the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. This score is not a numerical value, but rather a comprehensive evaluation based on the factors outlined below.

**Primary Care Landscape and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Huntington, like many areas, grapples with the challenge of adequate primary care physician (PCP) availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for conditions like COPD. Within ZIP Code 25702, the ratio likely reflects a regional trend. Researching the specific ratio for this area is paramount, utilizing data from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and national databases like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This data will reveal the baseline availability of PCPs, the first point of contact for patients with COPD symptoms.

Beyond raw numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs matters. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Access to care is significantly impacted by this factor. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by existing practices must be considered. A practice with a high patient load might not be readily accepting new patients, further limiting access. This dynamic directly influences the COPD Score, potentially impacting the ability of individuals to receive timely and appropriate care.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within the Huntington area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence in COPD management, offering comprehensive services and employing best practices. Key indicators include the use of evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, adherence to quality metrics like those set by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), and patient-centered care models.

Practices that embrace a multidisciplinary approach, involving PCPs, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and potentially nurses specializing in COPD management, are particularly noteworthy. These teams can provide a more holistic and coordinated approach to patient care. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which focus on exercise, education, and support, is another critical factor. These programs empower patients to manage their condition and improve their quality of life. The presence of these programs significantly elevates the COPD Score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Significance:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Its adoption rate within Huntington practices is a critical factor. Practices utilizing telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas.

The type of telemedicine platform used is also important. Secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms that allow for real-time video consultations and remote monitoring of vital signs are more beneficial than simple phone calls. Practices that integrate telemedicine into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved outcomes. The presence of telemedicine services, particularly those offering remote monitoring, directly impacts the COPD Score, reflecting an improved ability to manage the condition effectively.

**Mental Health Resources: An Underrated Component:**

COPD often brings with it significant emotional and psychological challenges. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations it imposes, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive COPD care.

The COPD Score is positively influenced by practices that screen patients for mental health issues and have readily available referral pathways to mental health professionals. Collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, and mental health specialists is crucial. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, also plays a vital role in providing patients with emotional support and a sense of community. Practices that acknowledge and address the mental health needs of their patients significantly enhance the overall quality of care and contribute to a higher COPD Score.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**

Evaluating the COPD Score for Huntington, WV (ZIP Code 25702) requires a holistic assessment. It involves understanding the PCP-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices that demonstrate excellence in COPD management, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. The final assessment will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in providing care for individuals with COPD.

The goal is to identify areas for improvement and provide insights that can be used to enhance the quality of care for individuals managing COPD in Huntington. This analysis serves as a starting point for a more in-depth investigation, highlighting the key factors that influence the accessibility and quality of COPD care.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Huntington, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to resources, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas with the greatest needs.