26591, Worthington, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26591, Worthington, West Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 65.94 percent of the residents in 26591 has some form of health insurance. 32.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.60 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 26591 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 652 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26591. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 326 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 828 health care providers accessible to residents in 26591, Worthington, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26591 and Primary Care Availability in Worthington

This analysis aims to assess the availability and quality of primary care services, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within ZIP code 26591 (Worthington, West Virginia) and the surrounding area. We will evaluate several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive COPD care. The goal is to provide a nuanced "COPD Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any COPD score lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). ZIP code 26591, being a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. National averages suggest a benchmark of around 1,300 patients per PCP. However, rural areas often experience higher ratios, potentially exceeding 2,000 or even 2,500 patients per physician. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased time spent with each patient, and reduced opportunities for proactive COPD management, such as regular pulmonary function tests and medication adjustments. A high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the COPD score.

The presence of standout practices significantly influences the overall quality of COPD care. These practices are characterized by several factors. Firstly, a dedicated focus on respiratory health, potentially including specialized pulmonologists or physicians with a strong interest in COPD management, is paramount. Secondly, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for COPD treatment, including spirometry testing, smoking cessation programs, and appropriate medication prescribing, is essential. Thirdly, a commitment to patient education and self-management strategies, such as providing resources on inhaler techniques and exacerbation management, is critical. Finally, the existence of a multidisciplinary team, including nurses, respiratory therapists, and potentially social workers, is highly beneficial. The identification of such practices would positively influence the COPD score.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in improving access to care, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent follow-up appointments. For COPD patients, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for monitoring symptoms, adjusting medications, and providing education. The presence of telemedicine capabilities, including video consultations, remote monitoring devices (e.g., for oxygen saturation), and secure messaging platforms, would significantly enhance the COPD score. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but they are critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is crucial for comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their COPD management programs would score favorably. The integration of these services acknowledges the holistic needs of COPD patients and contributes to improved quality of life. The lack of readily available mental health resources would negatively affect the COPD score.

Assessing the specific practices within ZIP code 26591 requires detailed research, including reviewing physician directories, insurance provider networks, and patient reviews. The analysis should identify the practices that offer the most comprehensive COPD care, considering the factors discussed above. This includes evaluating the qualifications of the physicians, the availability of specialized equipment, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services.

The overall COPD score would be a composite measure, weighted based on the importance of each factor. For example, physician-to-patient ratios might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to a primary care physician. The score would be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy comparison of different practices and an overall assessment of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26591. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare system with readily available primary care, specialized expertise in COPD management, and a commitment to patient-centered care. A low score would highlight areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and enhancing the availability of mental health resources.

Furthermore, this analysis should consider the broader context of the healthcare system in West Virginia. The state faces unique challenges, including a high prevalence of smoking and a history of coal mining, which contribute to a higher incidence of COPD. Understanding these contextual factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to improve COPD care. The analysis should also identify any existing initiatives aimed at addressing COPD in the region, such as public health campaigns, smoking cessation programs, and community-based support groups.

The final COPD score would not only reflect the current state of healthcare in ZIP code 26591 but also provide a baseline for future improvements. Regular reassessment of the score, coupled with targeted interventions, can help to ensure that COPD patients in Worthington receive the best possible care. The score can be used to advocate for increased resources, promote best practices, and ultimately improve the health and well-being of individuals living with COPD.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26591, including the geographical distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the demographics of the patient population, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care, identify underserved areas, and inform strategic planning for healthcare providers and policymakers. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Worthington and the surrounding areas.**