27046, Sandy Ridge, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27046, Sandy Ridge, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.39 percent of the residents in 27046 has some form of health insurance. 43.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.44 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 27046 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 273 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27046. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 655 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 406 health care providers accessible to residents in 27046, Sandy Ridge, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Sandy Ridge, NC (ZIP Code 27046)

Analyzing the availability and quality of COPD care within Sandy Ridge, North Carolina (ZIP code 27046) requires a multi-faceted approach. A "COPD Score," in this context, assesses the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis focuses on primary care physicians (PCPs) within the specified ZIP code, their capacity to manage COPD, and the support systems available to patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio within Sandy Ridge and its surrounding areas is a critical factor. Determining the exact ratio necessitates data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, the rural nature of the area suggests a potentially lower physician density compared to more urban centers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased travel distances for patients. A low physician-to-patient ratio negatively impacts the COPD Score.

Primary care physicians are the first line of defense for COPD patients. They are responsible for diagnosis, initial treatment, and ongoing management. Their knowledge of COPD guidelines, ability to perform spirometry (a lung function test), and willingness to coordinate care with pulmonologists (lung specialists) are crucial. The COPD Score considers the percentage of PCPs in 27046 who are board-certified in family medicine or internal medicine, indicating a foundational level of medical training. Furthermore, the score evaluates the availability of in-office spirometry, a vital tool for diagnosing and monitoring COPD. The presence of a dedicated respiratory therapist within a practice further enhances the score.

Standout practices in Sandy Ridge would likely demonstrate a proactive approach to COPD management. This includes implementing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, offering patient education programs, and actively monitoring patients' conditions. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, manage medication adherence, and facilitate communication between providers would score higher. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, such as offering smoking cessation programs, also contribute positively to the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve COPD care in rural areas like Sandy Ridge. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for those with limited mobility or transportation challenges. The COPD Score assesses the availability of telemedicine services among PCPs in 27046, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices embracing telemedicine would see their scores increase substantially.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of COPD care, but it is critical. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score evaluates the availability of mental health resources for COPD patients within the Sandy Ridge area. This includes the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors) who are accessible to patients, the integration of mental health screening into primary care visits, and the availability of support groups or educational programs focused on managing the psychological impact of COPD. The score considers the collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers to ensure holistic patient care.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, is another crucial factor. While PCPs manage the majority of COPD cases, pulmonologists provide specialized expertise and can manage complex cases. The COPD Score assesses the proximity of pulmonology practices to Sandy Ridge, the ease of referral processes from PCPs, and the ability of pulmonologists to accept new patients. A strong network of specialists enhances the overall COPD Score.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of resources for patient education and self-management. This includes access to educational materials about COPD, such as brochures, online resources, and support groups. Practices that offer structured education programs, teach patients how to use inhalers correctly, and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications (e.g., exercise, nutrition) receive a higher score. The availability of resources in multiple languages is also considered, reflecting the diversity of the patient population.

Furthermore, the COPD Score takes into account the availability of home healthcare services. For patients with advanced COPD, home healthcare can provide essential support, including medication management, oxygen therapy, and assistance with activities of daily living. The score evaluates the availability of home healthcare agencies that specialize in respiratory care and their ability to serve patients in the Sandy Ridge area.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Sandy Ridge, NC (ZIP code 27046) is a complex metric that reflects the interplay of various factors. A comprehensive assessment would require detailed data collection and analysis. The key elements include physician density, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, access to specialists, patient education programs, and home healthcare services. The overall score can range from poor to excellent, reflecting the quality of care available to individuals managing COPD.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and access to care within Sandy Ridge and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. They provide powerful visualization tools for analyzing spatial data and identifying areas with limited access to care.