26817, Bloomery, West Virginia COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 26817, Bloomery, West Virginia is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 26817 has some form of health insurance. 64.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.15 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 26817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 232 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26817. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 145 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13 health care providers accessible to residents in 26817, Bloomery, West Virginia.

## COPD Score Analysis: Bloomery, WV (ZIP Code 26817)

Bloomery, West Virginia, nestled within the 26817 ZIP code, presents a unique challenge in healthcare delivery, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a COPD Score assessment for the area. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing COPD in Bloomery and to highlight areas for potential improvement.

The COPD Score, in this context, is a composite metric, not a standardized clinical tool. It reflects the accessibility and quality of resources available to individuals with COPD. It considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized care, the adoption of technology, and the integration of mental health support, all crucial for effective COPD management.

**Primary Care Physician Availability:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In Bloomery, and indeed across much of rural West Virginia, this ratio is likely to be less favorable than in more urban settings. This means fewer physicians are available to serve a potentially larger patient population, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, a cornerstone of COPD management. Precise physician-to-patient ratio data requires access to a real-time database, which is beyond the scope of this analysis. However, publicly available data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates for the broader region, offering a baseline understanding of the situation.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the practices operating within 26817. This includes analyzing their patient reviews, their adherence to best practices in COPD management (e.g., adherence to GOLD guidelines), and their integration of technology. A practice that actively uses electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, offers patient portals for communication, and provides comprehensive patient education would be considered a strong performer. Furthermore, practices that offer on-site pulmonary function testing (PFTs) or have established relationships with pulmonologists for referrals would significantly enhance their COPD care capabilities. Without specific practice data, it's impossible to name specific standouts. However, the characteristics of a high-performing practice are readily identifiable.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge the geographical barriers that often limit access to healthcare in rural areas like Bloomery. The adoption rate of telemedicine within primary care practices is a key factor in the COPD Score. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient education resources are better equipped to manage COPD patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services can significantly reduce the burden of frequent clinic visits for medication adjustments or symptom management.

**Mental Health Resources:**

COPD is a chronic condition that often coexists with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The integration of mental health services within primary care is therefore crucial for holistic COPD management. Practices that have mental health professionals on staff, offer integrated behavioral health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists demonstrate a commitment to addressing the multifaceted needs of COPD patients. The availability of support groups and educational programs focusing on both physical and mental well-health is also important. The integration of mental health services directly impacts the COPD Score, as untreated mental health issues can exacerbate COPD symptoms and hinder adherence to treatment plans.

**COPD Score Assessment:**

Based on the limited information available, the COPD Score for Bloomery (26817) is likely to be moderate. The challenges of rural healthcare, including potential physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and the need for improved telemedicine adoption, likely lower the score. However, the score could be improved by practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, embrace technology, and integrate mental health services.

**Specific Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Increase Physician Recruitment:** Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Incentives for physicians to practice in rural areas, such as loan repayment programs, can help alleviate shortages.
* **Expand Telemedicine Services:** Encourage primary care practices to adopt and expand telemedicine offerings, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education.
* **Integrate Mental Health Services:** Promote the integration of mental health professionals within primary care practices or establish clear referral pathways to mental health specialists.
* **Improve Patient Education:** Provide comprehensive patient education programs on COPD management, including medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and symptom recognition.
* **Foster Collaboration:** Encourage collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated care.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape in Bloomery, WV, presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals managing COPD. While the area may face certain limitations, proactive steps can be taken to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately improve the lives of those living with COPD. The COPD Score serves as a starting point for assessing the current situation and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in Bloomery, and to visualize physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify the locations of healthcare providers, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.