26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.78 percent of the residents in 26143 has some form of health insurance. 49.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.84 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 26143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 812 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26143. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 812 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,962 health care providers accessible to residents in 26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia.

**COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care in Elizabeth, WV (ZIP Code 26143)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 26143, focusing on their capacity to manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive COPD care. Elizabeth, WV, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in accessible and competent primary care. A high physician-to-patient ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, less frequent follow-up appointments, and a diminished ability for physicians to provide the individualized attention COPD patients require. Conversely, a favorable ratio, coupled with skilled PCPs, can significantly improve patient outcomes by enabling proactive disease management, patient education, and timely interventions. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio in Elizabeth, WV, is difficult to ascertain definitively without access to real-time, comprehensive databases. However, publicly available information, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) data, provides estimates. This data, combined with local knowledge, allows for an informed assessment.

Standout practices in the area are those that demonstrate a commitment to COPD care through several key indicators. These include having physicians with specialized training or certifications in pulmonary medicine or chronic disease management, offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFT) on-site, and actively participating in COPD-specific quality improvement programs. Practices that integrate patient education programs, such as smoking cessation counseling and self-management training, are also considered exemplary. Furthermore, practices that proactively screen for COPD in high-risk populations, such as current or former smokers, are critical. The identification of such practices requires a detailed review of practice websites, patient testimonials, and potentially, direct communication with healthcare providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital in rural areas like Elizabeth. Telehealth allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be a significant barrier for COPD patients with breathing difficulties. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce hospital readmissions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offer virtual COPD support groups, and integrate remote monitoring devices into their care models are demonstrating a forward-thinking approach. The extent of telemedicine integration in Elizabeth is a critical factor in evaluating the overall quality of COPD care.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the integration of mental health resources. COPD can have a significant impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to local mental health providers, are demonstrating a holistic approach to patient care. The presence of these resources, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers, is a key indicator of a practice’s commitment to comprehensive COPD management. Assessing the availability of these resources requires examining practice websites, patient reviews, and local directories.

Specific examples of practices in the area and their strengths are difficult to provide without violating patient privacy and data security. However, it is possible to generally characterize the types of practices that are likely to be well-equipped to handle COPD. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems may have greater access to specialized resources, such as pulmonary specialists and respiratory therapists. Independent practices, on the other hand, may offer a more personalized approach to care, with a strong emphasis on patient-physician relationships. Both models have the potential to provide excellent COPD care, depending on their individual strengths and resources.

The challenges faced by primary care physicians in Elizabeth, WV, include the limited availability of specialists, the geographic isolation of the community, and the socioeconomic factors that can impact patient health. Overcoming these challenges requires a collaborative approach, involving physicians, hospitals, community organizations, and government agencies. Strategies such as telehealth, community health worker programs, and partnerships with regional medical centers can help to improve access to care and support for COPD patients.

The overall COPD score for primary care in ZIP code 26143 is a complex assessment. It involves considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. While a precise numerical score is impossible to provide without access to proprietary data, a qualitative assessment can be made based on publicly available information and local knowledge. The score is likely to be influenced by the rural nature of the area, the limited resources, and the potential for challenges in access to care.

The future of COPD care in Elizabeth, WV, hinges on the ability of healthcare providers to adapt to the changing healthcare landscape. This includes embracing technology, fostering collaboration, and prioritizing patient-centered care. Continued investment in primary care, the expansion of telehealth services, and the integration of mental health resources are essential steps towards improving the lives of COPD patients in the community.

For a more detailed understanding of healthcare resources and physician locations in Elizabeth, WV, and the surrounding areas, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to identify the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Use CartoChrome to gain valuable insights into the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.