27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.74 percent of the residents in 27009 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 27009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,063 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Belews Creek (27009) Primary Care

Analyzing the COPD landscape in Belews Creek, North Carolina (ZIP code 27009) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a COPD score assessment. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals managing or at risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The foundation of COPD management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Belews Creek, being a relatively rural area, faces inherent challenges in this regard. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. It is crucial to consider the geographic distribution of these physicians, ensuring that patients have reasonable access to care without excessive travel distances. This includes examining the presence of family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and, importantly, pulmonologists, who are directly involved in COPD diagnosis and treatment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. This ratio provides a quantitative measure of access to care. A high physician-to-patient ratio suggests a potential strain on healthcare resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates greater accessibility. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 27009 requires data analysis, considering the population of Belews Creek and the number of practicing PCPs in the area. The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, significantly impacts the overall score.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care provided. This assessment considers factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of evidence-based COPD management guidelines, and the availability of comprehensive services. Practices that actively participate in chronic disease management programs, offer patient education resources, and demonstrate a commitment to preventive care are likely to receive higher ratings. Further, the integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data sharing and coordinated care, is a crucial factor.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care for COPD patients. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing practice workflows. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

Mental health is inextricably linked to COPD. The chronic nature of the disease can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, a crucial aspect of COPD care. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the primary care setting or readily accessible through referral networks. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD management programs, offer counseling and support groups, and promote mental well-being are highly valued.

Based on the factors discussed, a COPD score can be assigned to the primary care landscape in 27009. This score reflects the overall quality and accessibility of care for COPD patients. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving healthcare environment. The score would be derived from analyzing data regarding physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis would also consider the presence of any standout practices that excel in COPD management. These practices would be identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care, their use of evidence-based guidelines, and their integration of technology. The practices' ability to provide comprehensive care, including patient education, medication management, and mental health support, would be a key factor in their evaluation.

Specific data points would be analyzed. The number of practicing PCPs within 27009 and its surrounding areas would be determined. The geographic distribution of these physicians would be mapped to assess accessibility. The availability of pulmonologists and other specialists would be evaluated. Patient satisfaction scores and reviews would be analyzed to gauge the quality of care. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices would be assessed. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists and support groups, would be investigated.

The final COPD score would reflect a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare environment in Belews Creek. The score would provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement. The score would be a dynamic indicator, reflecting the ongoing efforts to enhance COPD care in the community.

In conclusion, the COPD score for Belews Creek (27009) is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of various factors. A comprehensive analysis, incorporating physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, is essential for understanding the quality and accessibility of care.
For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Belews Creek, including physician locations, practice information, and resource availability, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome.