26141, Creston, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26141, Creston, West Virginia is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.11 percent of the residents in 26141 has some form of health insurance. 56.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.67 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 26141 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26141. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 101 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 79 health care providers accessible to residents in 26141, Creston, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26141 and Primary Care Availability in Creston

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, specifically concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the resources available within ZIP code 26141, which encompasses Creston, and evaluates the landscape of primary care, a critical component of effective COPD care. Our assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial factors in determining a COPD Score for the area.

The first and perhaps most fundamental aspect to consider is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians relative to the population, can significantly impact access to care. In the context of COPD, this is particularly concerning. Patients with COPD often require frequent check-ups, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation. A strained healthcare system, marked by a low physician-to-patient ratio, can lead to delayed appointments, shorter consultation times, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for COPD sufferers. Accurate data on this ratio within ZIP code 26141 is essential. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates, but the precise figure requires in-depth investigation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves play a crucial role. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they have specialized training or experience in respiratory medicine? Do they offer comprehensive services, including spirometry testing (a key diagnostic tool for COPD) and education on disease management? Practices that are well-equipped, staffed with experienced professionals, and committed to patient education are more likely to achieve better outcomes for COPD patients. Investigating the practice profiles, including the types of services offered, the credentials of the physicians, and the patient satisfaction ratings, is vital.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve COPD care, especially in rural areas like Creston. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent monitoring. This is particularly beneficial for COPD patients, who may experience exacerbations requiring immediate attention. The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources, can significantly enhance the quality of care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in ZIP code 26141, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, is crucial.

Mental health support is another critical consideration. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Integrated mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referrals, are essential for comprehensive COPD care. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to counseling, therapy, or psychiatric services are better positioned to support the holistic needs of their patients. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources, including the presence of on-site mental health professionals, referral networks, and educational materials, is essential.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 26141 can highlight best practices and inform future improvements. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care, including strong physician-to-patient ratios, experienced physicians, telemedicine integration, and robust mental health support, should be recognized. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, promoting the adoption of best practices and ultimately improving the quality of care for all COPD patients. This identification process should involve a detailed review of practice profiles, patient satisfaction surveys, and outcome data, where available.

The COPD Score for ZIP code 26141 is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to track changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are critical for identifying areas of strength and weakness and informing strategies for improvement.

The analysis of primary care availability in Creston, and its impact on COPD care, is a complex undertaking. The availability of physicians, the quality of services, the integration of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health support all contribute to the overall COPD Score. A comprehensive assessment requires a detailed investigation of each of these factors.

The success of COPD management hinges on the availability of accessible, high-quality primary care. Addressing any deficiencies in the healthcare infrastructure is paramount. This involves not only increasing the number of physicians but also ensuring that practices are equipped to provide comprehensive care, including specialized services, telemedicine options, and mental health support.

The COPD Score is a tool for understanding the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26141. It is a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to work together to improve the quality of care for COPD patients. It is a call to identify and address the challenges and opportunities that exist in the area.

The analysis of primary care availability in Creston highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to COPD care. This approach must consider physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. By addressing these factors, the healthcare community can improve the quality of life for COPD patients in the area.

The data required for a complete COPD Score analysis can be complex and difficult to access. The process requires a thorough understanding of the healthcare system and the ability to gather and analyze data from various sources. The resulting score provides a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape.

To visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Creston and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, providing a clear and concise overview of the healthcare resources available.