25836, Eccles, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 25836, Eccles, West Virginia is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25836 has some form of health insurance. 54.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.14 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 25836 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 303 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25836. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 256 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,706 health care providers accessible to residents in 25836, Eccles, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25836 & Eccles Primary Care

Analyzing the quality of COPD care and primary care availability within ZIP code 25836, which encompasses Eccles, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will explore key factors impacting patient access and outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of care and identify areas for potential improvement. This is not a simple task, and while a definitive “COPD Score” is not something easily quantifiable, this analysis will strive to provide a clear picture.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In a rural area like Eccles, the availability of primary care physicians and pulmonologists is often limited. Determining the precise ratio requires data on the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code and the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide population estimates. However, obtaining the exact number of practicing physicians requires more detailed research, potentially involving contacting local hospitals, clinics, and professional medical organizations. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of providers, can significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of COPD. This can lead to delayed interventions, increased exacerbations, and a poorer quality of life for patients.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial for understanding best practices and potential models for improvement. These practices might demonstrate exceptional patient outcomes, innovative care delivery models, or strong patient satisfaction ratings. Researching local hospitals and clinics, reviewing online patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and contacting regional medical societies can help identify these practices. Key indicators of excellence might include a dedicated COPD clinic, a multidisciplinary team including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and nurses, and a comprehensive patient education program. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD also demonstrate a commitment to advancing patient care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals. Practices utilizing these technologies can improve patient convenience, enhance adherence to treatment plans, and facilitate early intervention for exacerbations. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a critical factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

The integration of mental health resources is essential for comprehensive COPD care. COPD can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, is vital for addressing these issues. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local mental health clinics, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care programs, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Furthermore, the presence of community resources like pulmonary rehabilitation programs and smoking cessation programs is crucial. Pulmonary rehabilitation helps patients manage their symptoms, improve their exercise capacity, and enhance their overall quality of life. Smoking cessation programs are essential for preventing the progression of COPD and improving patient outcomes. Evaluating the availability and accessibility of these programs is a key component of the analysis.

Analyzing the specific practices and their offerings is key to understanding the quality of care. Researching the Eccles Medical Group, for example, will help determine their approach to COPD. Do they have a dedicated pulmonologist? Do they offer pulmonary rehabilitation? Similarly, investigating the services offered by the Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital, and its associated clinics, is crucial. This will allow a better understanding of the specialist support available. It is also important to understand the relationships between these various providers. Do they collaborate? Do they have referral pathways?

The assessment of COPD care and primary care availability in Eccles, within ZIP code 25836, is an ongoing process. It requires continuous monitoring of key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This is not a static evaluation. As healthcare evolves, so too must the assessment of care.

The information gathered can be used to inform healthcare planning, identify areas for improvement, and advocate for resources to support patients with COPD. This analysis is a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities in providing quality care to this vulnerable population.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in ZIP code 25836, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and help identify potential disparities.