26151, Mount Zion, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26151, Mount Zion, West Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.51 percent of the residents in 26151 has some form of health insurance. 65.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.63 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 26151 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 174 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26151. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 146 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 81 health care providers accessible to residents in 26151, Mount Zion, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Mount Zion, WV (ZIP Code 26151)

This analysis delves into the landscape of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) care in Mount Zion, West Virginia, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and the resources accessible to patients within ZIP code 26151. The goal is to provide a COPD score assessment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure concerning COPD management. This score will consider physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all critical components of comprehensive COPD care.

Mount Zion, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The limited population density, coupled with geographic isolation, often translates to a scarcity of healthcare providers. Consequently, the physician-to-patient ratio becomes a crucial metric. While precise figures fluctuate, data suggests a potential shortage of PCPs in the area, a factor that significantly impacts COPD patient care. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment adjustments. This scarcity necessitates an examination of how existing resources are being utilized and whether innovative solutions are being implemented to bridge the access gap.

The quality of primary care practices within the ZIP code is another vital element. Assessing the characteristics of these practices involves considering factors such as the availability of on-site pulmonary function testing, access to respiratory therapists, and the adoption of evidence-based COPD management protocols. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive COPD care, including regular patient education, smoking cessation programs, and personalized treatment plans, would receive higher scores. Conversely, practices lacking these resources may contribute to poorer patient outcomes and a lower overall COPD score for the region.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the access challenges faced by patients in Mount Zion. Remote consultations, virtual monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources can empower patients to manage their COPD effectively, regardless of their geographic location. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, and digital patient portals, will significantly influence the COPD score. Practices actively utilizing these technologies demonstrate a proactive approach to improving patient care and expanding access to specialized expertise.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked aspect of COPD management, yet it is critical. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and access to psychiatric care, is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their COPD management programs will contribute positively to the overall COPD score. The presence of local support groups, educational programs, and readily available mental health professionals demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

Standout practices within the region would be those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in COPD care. These practices may exhibit several key characteristics: a high physician-to-patient ratio, a focus on patient education, the integration of telemedicine, and robust mental health support services. They might also be actively involved in community outreach programs, promoting COPD awareness and early detection. Identifying and highlighting these standout practices can serve as a model for others, encouraging the adoption of best practices and ultimately improving the quality of care for all COPD patients in Mount Zion.

The COPD score for ZIP code 26151 would be based on a composite of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources would each be assigned a weighted score. The final score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care in the area. A low score would indicate significant challenges, such as a shortage of physicians, limited access to specialized services, and a lack of mental health support. A high score would suggest a more robust healthcare infrastructure, with ample access to care, innovative technologies, and a focus on comprehensive patient well-being.

To improve the COPD score in Mount Zion, several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting more PCPs, particularly those with experience in pulmonary medicine, would be a primary focus. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine by all practices could expand access to care, particularly for patients in remote areas. Increasing the availability of mental health services, including integrating mental health screenings into routine COPD care, is also essential. Finally, fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and patient support groups could create a more integrated and supportive healthcare ecosystem.

The analysis of COPD care in Mount Zion reveals both challenges and opportunities. The rural setting presents unique obstacles, including limited access to healthcare providers and specialized services. However, the potential for telemedicine and community-based initiatives offers a pathway to improving the quality of care and outcomes for COPD patients. The overall COPD score for this ZIP code would likely reflect the need for improvement, particularly regarding physician access and the integration of mental health support. Continuous monitoring and evaluation, coupled with strategic interventions, are essential to ensure that COPD patients in Mount Zion receive the comprehensive care they deserve.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Zion and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data relevant to COPD prevalence, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.