27217, Burlington, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27217, Burlington, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.06 percent of the residents in 27217 has some form of health insurance. 41.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.61 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 27217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,373 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,466 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,762 health care providers accessible to residents in 27217, Burlington, North Carolina.

The analysis below provides a COPD score assessment for primary care physicians in Burlington, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27217), focusing on factors impacting patient care and resource availability. This assessment considers various aspects, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Burlington, a city in Alamance County, faces challenges common to many communities. The health and well-being of its residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like COPD, depend heavily on accessible and effective primary care. This analysis aims to highlight strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape to inform both patients and healthcare providers.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. In ZIP Code 27217, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a key factor. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access, allowing for more individualized attention and potentially more frequent check-ups, which are vital for COPD management. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau will be used to estimate this ratio. Any shortages in primary care physicians can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis or treatment adjustments for COPD patients.

Several primary care practices in Burlington stand out for their commitment to COPD care. These practices may have specialized staff, such as respiratory therapists or certified asthma educators, who provide targeted support to COPD patients. They might also offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing on-site, which is essential for monitoring disease progression and treatment effectiveness. Furthermore, practices with strong relationships with pulmonologists and other specialists facilitate seamless referrals and coordinated care, leading to better patient outcomes.

The adoption of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare delivery, especially for patients with chronic conditions. In Burlington, the extent to which primary care practices have integrated telemedicine into their services is a crucial component of the COPD score. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for COPD patients who may experience mobility limitations or live in rural areas, making it difficult to access traditional healthcare settings. Practices with robust telemedicine platforms often receive a higher score in this assessment.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges due to the physical limitations and lifestyle adjustments associated with the disease. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referral networks is, therefore, a vital aspect of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive a higher score. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive holistic care, addressing both their physical and emotional needs.

Specific practice characteristics are evaluated. The availability of patient education materials, such as pamphlets, videos, and online resources, is essential for empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. Practices that actively promote patient education and self-management strategies score higher. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also assessed. EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing physicians to easily access patient information, track progress, and communicate with other healthcare providers. Practices with well-integrated EHR systems are generally better equipped to provide efficient and effective COPD care.

The level of training and expertise of the primary care physicians in COPD management is another critical factor. Practices with physicians who have specialized training or certifications in pulmonary medicine or chronic disease management receive a higher score. This expertise ensures that patients receive evidence-based care and are managed according to the latest clinical guidelines. Continuing medical education (CME) activities related to COPD are also considered. Practices that actively encourage and support physician participation in CME programs demonstrate a commitment to staying current with the latest advances in COPD care.

The overall patient experience is also a key consideration. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction, as evidenced by patient surveys and online reviews, receive a higher score. Factors such as appointment scheduling, wait times, communication with the care team, and the overall comfort of the practice environment are all assessed. Practices that foster a patient-centered approach are more likely to build trust and rapport with their patients, leading to improved adherence to treatment plans and better health outcomes.

The availability of community resources is also assessed. Burlington has various community resources that support COPD patients, such as support groups, rehabilitation programs, and access to durable medical equipment. Practices that actively connect their patients with these resources receive a higher score. Collaboration with local hospitals and other healthcare organizations is also considered. Practices that have established partnerships with hospitals and other specialists can ensure seamless transitions of care and facilitate access to specialized services when needed.

The COPD score is not a static measure but rather a dynamic assessment that can change over time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and best practices emerging regularly. Practices that are proactive in adapting to these changes and continuously improving their services are likely to receive higher scores. This assessment provides a snapshot of the current state of COPD care in Burlington, NC, and serves as a benchmark for future improvements.

The data used to compile this COPD score analysis is gathered from publicly available sources and may not be completely comprehensive. However, it provides a valuable overview of the primary care landscape in ZIP Code 27217 and highlights key factors that impact COPD care. This information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement.

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