26562, Burton, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26562, Burton, West Virginia is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.99 percent of the residents in 26562 has some form of health insurance. 52.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.08 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 26562 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 255 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26562. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 122 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 532 health care providers accessible to residents in 26562, Burton, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Burton, WV (ZIP Code 26562)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services, particularly in the context of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within the Burton, West Virginia area (ZIP Code 26562). This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements for effectively addressing COPD, a chronic respiratory illness prevalent in many rural communities.

Burton, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural healthcare settings. These include physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and difficulties in providing comprehensive services. COPD management demands consistent monitoring, medication adherence support, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to mental health services, making the availability of these resources critical.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

Determining precise physician-to-patient ratios within a specific ZIP code requires access to detailed, real-time data. However, we can infer general trends. Given the size of Burton and its surrounding area, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely higher than the national average. This means there are potentially fewer primary care physicians (PCPs) per capita, leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased patient burden. This scarcity can impact the ability of individuals with COPD to receive timely care, exacerbating their condition and increasing the risk of hospitalizations.

The availability of primary care is not simply about the number of physicians; it also encompasses factors like appointment scheduling, office hours, and insurance acceptance. Practices that offer extended hours, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and provide efficient appointment scheduling systems are more accessible to patients. The physical accessibility of practices, including proximity to patients' homes and the availability of transportation, is also a significant consideration in a rural setting.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying "standout" practices requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. Factors that contribute to a practice being considered "standout" in COPD care include: a dedicated focus on respiratory health, the availability of spirometry and other diagnostic tools, and the presence of a respiratory therapist or trained nurses specializing in COPD management. Practices that actively participate in chronic disease management programs and offer patient education are also highly valued.

Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including clear communication, shared decision-making, and culturally sensitive services, tend to achieve better patient outcomes. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates better care coordination, medication management, and communication between providers.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Critical Component:**

Telemedicine holds immense potential in addressing healthcare access challenges in rural areas like Burton. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management support. Its use can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which is particularly beneficial for patients with COPD who may experience shortness of breath and mobility limitations.

The successful implementation of telemedicine requires reliable internet access, patient and provider training, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing healthcare workflows. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and patient education programs are better positioned to provide comprehensive COPD care.

**Mental Health Resources: An Often-Overlooked Need:**

COPD significantly impacts mental health. The chronic nature of the illness, the physical limitations it imposes, and the potential for exacerbations can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is crucial for comprehensive COPD care.

The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the primary care setting or through referral networks is essential. Access to mental health services, including individual therapy, group support, and medication management, can improve patients' coping mechanisms and overall well-being. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide appropriate referrals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**

The COPD score for Burton, WV (ZIP Code 26562) is likely impacted by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare settings. The physician-to-patient ratio may be higher, and access to specialized care and mental health resources might be limited. The adoption of telemedicine and the presence of practices dedicated to COPD management are critical factors in improving the quality of care.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Burton and to identify specific practices that excel in COPD management, a detailed analysis of individual practice profiles, patient outcomes, and resource availability is necessary. This requires accessing data on physician specialties, telemedicine capabilities, mental health services, and patient satisfaction.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Burton, including the location of primary care practices, the availability of resources, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive, data-driven visualization of the healthcare environment, allowing for a more informed understanding of access to care and the challenges faced by individuals with COPD. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps today to visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in Burton, WV (ZIP Code 26562) and beyond.