26138, Brohard, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.42 percent of the residents in 26138 has some form of health insurance. 70.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.97 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 26138 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26138. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 111 health care providers accessible to residents in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia.

The analysis below evaluates primary care physician availability and related resources for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within ZIP Code 26138, encompassing the Brohard area. This assessment considers factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for COPD patients, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in 26138 reveals a critical aspect of healthcare accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, the area, like many rural locations, likely faces a shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making it harder for COPD patients to receive timely interventions and ongoing care. The implications are significant, potentially delaying diagnosis, hindering medication adjustments, and increasing the risk of exacerbations, which can severely impact quality of life.

Evaluating the quality of primary care practices requires a multifaceted approach. This includes assessing the availability of board-certified physicians, the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, and the presence of specialized respiratory therapists or pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys offer valuable insights into the patient experience, reflecting the effectiveness of communication, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall quality of care. Practices demonstrating a commitment to these factors, such as those actively participating in quality improvement initiatives and offering comprehensive patient education, are better equipped to support COPD patients.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to enhance COPD care in 26138. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, facilitating virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Practices actively integrating telemedicine into their COPD care models can improve patient access, reduce the burden of travel, and potentially mitigate the risk of exacerbations by enabling proactive intervention.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but crucial component of COPD management. The chronic nature of the disease can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices should therefore prioritize access to mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists. This integration of mental and physical healthcare can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological impact of COPD, fostering coping mechanisms, and promoting overall well-being. The availability of support groups and educational resources also plays a vital role in empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.

Specific standout practices within 26138, if they exist, might be identified by their commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offer extended hours, and provide multilingual services demonstrate a dedication to meeting the diverse needs of their patient population. Furthermore, practices that embrace technological advancements, such as electronic health records and patient portals, can streamline communication, improve care coordination, and enhance patient engagement. Identifying these exemplary practices is crucial for informing patients about their best options for receiving care.

The Brohard area, within ZIP Code 26138, presents specific challenges and opportunities. Its rural setting may limit access to specialized services and resources. However, this also creates an opportunity for innovative healthcare models, such as mobile health clinics or collaborative partnerships between primary care practices and specialists in nearby urban centers. Addressing the unique needs of the Brohard community requires a tailored approach that considers factors such as transportation limitations, socioeconomic disparities, and the prevalence of specific health conditions.

In conclusion, the availability of primary care and associated resources for COPD patients in 26138, including Brohard, requires careful consideration. While the physician-to-patient ratio may pose a challenge, the quality of care can be improved through the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and a focus on patient-centered care. Identifying and supporting standout practices that prioritize these factors is essential for improving the health outcomes and quality of life for COPD patients in this area.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 26138, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the local healthcare environment and making informed decisions about your COPD care.