26534, Granville, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26534, Granville, West Virginia is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.96 percent of the residents in 26534 has some form of health insurance. 59.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.17 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 26534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 164 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 65 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26534. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 222 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,177 health care providers accessible to residents in 26534, Granville, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26534 and Primary Care in Granville

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Granville, West Virginia, specifically focusing on the 26534 ZIP code and its implications for patients managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The assessment considers factors crucial for COPD care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a "COPD Score" reflecting the accessibility and comprehensiveness of care.

The 26534 ZIP code encompasses a portion of Granville, a community that, like many rural areas, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. A critical component of this analysis is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a snapshot of the potential burden on each PCP, impacting appointment availability and the time dedicated to each patient. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced follow-up care, and potentially, poorer COPD management. Data from various sources, including the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the US Census Bureau, are utilized to estimate this ratio. The analysis considers the number of practicing PCPs within the 26534 ZIP code and the estimated population it serves. This data is then compared to national averages to gauge the relative adequacy of physician availability.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices within 26534 significantly influence the COPD Score. The analysis examines the size of the practices, the types of services offered, and the availability of specialized equipment crucial for COPD diagnosis and management. Larger practices, often with multiple physicians and support staff, may offer a broader range of services and potentially better coordination of care. The presence of in-house pulmonary function testing (PFT) equipment, for example, can streamline the diagnostic process and facilitate regular monitoring of lung function, which is vital for COPD patients. Conversely, smaller practices may struggle to provide the same level of comprehensive care.

Another crucial factor is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to care. The analysis investigates the extent to which PCPs in 26534 utilize telemedicine for COPD management. This includes assessing whether they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients' symptoms and vital signs, and the use of telehealth platforms for medication management and patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from the clinic.

Mental health resources are also a vital consideration. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The analysis evaluates the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices or through referrals. This includes assessing whether PCPs screen patients for mental health issues, offer in-house counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists. Practices that prioritize mental health support demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care, which can lead to improved COPD outcomes.

The analysis also identifies standout practices within the 26534 ZIP code. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in COPD care, based on factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the range of services offered, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This could include practices with a dedicated COPD clinic, a strong focus on patient education, or a commitment to continuous quality improvement. Recognizing these standout practices can provide valuable insights into best practices and serve as a model for other providers.

The specifics of practice offerings are also explored. Some practices may offer specialized programs tailored to COPD patients, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs, smoking cessation support, or disease management education. The analysis also examines the practice's approach to patient education, including the availability of educational materials, support groups, and individualized counseling. The quality of communication between the practice and patients is also considered, including the use of patient portals, electronic health records, and clear communication protocols.

Moreover, the analysis considers the practice's approach to medication management. This includes assessing whether the practice has systems in place to ensure medication adherence, such as medication reconciliation, reminder systems, and medication reviews. The practice's approach to coordinating care with specialists, such as pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, is also considered. The analysis also examines the practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs) and how they are utilized to improve care coordination and communication.

The analysis considers the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, such as those published by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). This includes assessing whether the practice follows guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of COPD patients. The analysis also examines the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives and its commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

The final "COPD Score" for the 26534 ZIP code is a composite metric that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of primary care for COPD patients. This score is based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score is then compared to benchmarks to provide a relative assessment of the quality of care in 26534. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the current state of COPD care in the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and identifying areas for improvement.

By understanding the landscape of primary care in 26534, healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients can make informed decisions to improve COPD management. This analysis underscores the importance of comprehensive care, the integration of technology, and the prioritization of mental health in supporting patients with this chronic condition.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Granville and the surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps available at CartoChrome.