26808, High View, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26808, High View, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.82 percent of the residents in 26808 has some form of health insurance. 34.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.46 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 26808 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 88 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26808. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 95 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 50 health care providers accessible to residents in 26808, High View, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: High View, WV (ZIP Code 26808)

Analyzing the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within the High View, West Virginia (ZIP code 26808) area necessitates a comprehensive assessment. This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," will delve into key factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape for individuals managing COPD.

The foundation of any COPD score lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians. In High View, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the rural nature of the area typically presents a challenge. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer physicians for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and less frequent monitoring of COPD patients. This can negatively impact disease management, potentially leading to more frequent exacerbations and hospitalizations. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, further complicates the picture. The need to travel long distances for specialized care is a significant burden for COPD patients, who often experience mobility limitations and respiratory distress.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating clinics and medical groups within the ZIP code and its immediate vicinity. These practices are assessed based on several criteria. Firstly, the presence of board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with extensive experience in managing COPD is crucial. Secondly, the availability of comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFT) capabilities within the practice is essential for accurate diagnosis and ongoing monitoring. Thirdly, the implementation of evidence-based COPD management protocols, including medication optimization, pulmonary rehabilitation referrals, and smoking cessation programs, contributes significantly to a practice's standing. Fourthly, patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide invaluable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve COPD care in rural areas like High View. Telemedicine allows patients to access medical consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring without the need for frequent in-person visits. This is especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those living far from healthcare facilities. The COPD score considers the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services. This includes the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices (such as pulse oximeters), and patient education resources accessible online. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform and the technical support offered to patients are also important factors.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the impact of the disease on mental health. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the COPD score. This includes the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, referrals to local therapists and psychiatrists, and access to support groups. The ability to address the psychological and emotional needs of COPD patients is essential for improving their quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The COPD score assesses the integration of mental health services into the overall care model.

The COPD score for High View, WV (26808) is not easily quantifiable. The rural nature of the area and the limited availability of detailed public health data make a precise numerical score challenging. However, the analysis suggests a need for improvement in several areas. The physician-to-patient ratio likely presents a challenge, particularly for access to pulmonologists. While there may be dedicated practices in the area, the distance to these practices could be a barrier for some patients. Telemedicine adoption, while potentially beneficial, may be limited. The integration of mental health services into COPD care is also an area that may require strengthening.

To further refine this analysis and gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape, it is essential to leverage advanced mapping and data visualization tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful platform for visualizing physician locations, patient demographics, and the distribution of healthcare resources within the ZIP code. By integrating this data with information on practice capabilities, telemedicine adoption, and mental health services, a more comprehensive and actionable COPD score can be developed. This detailed analysis can then inform targeted interventions to improve the quality of care for COPD patients in High View.

For a more detailed and visually compelling understanding of the healthcare landscape in High View, WV (26808), and to identify potential areas for improvement in COPD care, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Their platform offers the ability to visualize complex data, identify gaps in care, and ultimately help improve patient outcomes.