26147, Grantsville, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26147, Grantsville, West Virginia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.30 percent of the residents in 26147 has some form of health insurance. 57.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.48 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 26147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 264 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 484 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 81 health care providers accessible to residents in 26147, Grantsville, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Grantsville, WV (ZIP Code 26147)

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care and COPD management capabilities within Grantsville, West Virginia (ZIP code 26147). The focus is on evaluating the availability of resources, the quality of care, and the potential for improvement in addressing the needs of individuals living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). A "COPD Score" is implicitly created by assessing various factors, rather than a single numerical value.

Grantsville, a small rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Limited access to specialized medical services, coupled with the prevalence of risk factors for COPD, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of available resources. The analysis will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial components of effective COPD management.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In a rural setting like Grantsville, a low ratio can severely restrict access to timely medical attention. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or similar sources would provide the most accurate information on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code, alongside the population of Grantsville. A low ratio, for example, less than one PCP per 1,000 residents, would immediately raise concerns.

The availability of primary care extends beyond the raw number of physicians. It includes factors such as office hours, appointment wait times, and acceptance of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, which are crucial for many COPD patients. Extended office hours, same-day appointments for acute exacerbations, and efficient appointment scheduling systems are all signs of a practice committed to patient access.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several key aspects of their operations. This includes the quality of care provided, the implementation of evidence-based COPD management protocols, and the patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing, and actively monitor patients' disease progression are likely to provide superior care.

The presence of certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) within a practice is another positive indicator. RRTs are essential for administering breathing treatments, educating patients on proper inhaler techniques, and providing ongoing support for managing COPD symptoms. Practices that integrate RRTs into their care model are often better equipped to address the complex needs of COPD patients.

Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and track patient outcomes demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. This could involve monitoring readmission rates, medication adherence, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that use these metrics to inform their care delivery are likely to provide a higher level of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine offers a significant opportunity to improve access to care in rural areas. For COPD patients, telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations with specialists, and medication management. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as remote patient monitoring devices and video conferencing platforms, can significantly enhance the quality of life for COPD patients.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially offer more frequent check-ins with patients, allowing for earlier detection of exacerbations and proactive interventions. This can lead to fewer hospitalizations and improved overall health outcomes. The availability of telehealth services also reduces the burden of travel for patients, which can be particularly challenging for those with breathing difficulties.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration**

COPD can have a profound impact on mental health. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with breathing difficulties and limitations on physical activity, can lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Integrating mental health services into COPD care is therefore crucial.

Practices that offer on-site mental health counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is essential for addressing the complex needs of COPD patients. Practices that incorporate mental health screening into their routine assessments and provide support groups for patients and their families are likely to achieve better patient outcomes.

**Specific Considerations for Grantsville**

Given the rural nature of Grantsville, the analysis must consider the unique challenges faced by the community. This includes limited access to specialists, transportation barriers, and potential financial constraints. Practices that are aware of these challenges and actively work to overcome them are likely to be more successful in providing effective COPD care.

Community outreach programs, such as educational workshops and support groups, can play a vital role in empowering patients and their families. Collaboration with local pharmacies to ensure medication adherence and provide medication counseling is also crucial. Partnerships with local organizations, such as the American Lung Association, can provide valuable resources and support.

**Overall COPD Score Assessment**

The "COPD Score" for Grantsville, based on this analysis, is likely to be moderate. The community faces challenges related to physician availability, access to specialists, and the integration of mental health services. However, opportunities exist to improve care through the adoption of telemedicine, the implementation of evidence-based COPD management protocols, and the development of community-based support programs.

The success of COPD management in Grantsville will depend on the ability of healthcare providers to collaborate, innovate, and address the unique needs of the community. Continuous monitoring of healthcare access, quality of care, and patient outcomes is essential for driving improvement.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in Grantsville, West Virginia, and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.