27243, Efland, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27243, Efland, North Carolina is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.27 percent of the residents in 27243 has some form of health insurance. 29.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.71 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 27243 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,428 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27243. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 989 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,445 health care providers accessible to residents in 27243, Efland, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27243 & Primary Care in Efland

The assessment of COPD care within ZIP code 27243, encompassing the town of Efland, necessitates a multifaceted approach. We need to examine the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), considering their capacity to diagnose, manage, and refer patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight potential standout practices, evaluate the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the availability of integrated mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive COPD management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a greater likelihood of patients receiving prompt care and consistent monitoring. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), should be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-population ratio within 27243. This ratio should be compared to both state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care. A concerning ratio would necessitate further investigation into the factors contributing to the shortage, such as physician recruitment and retention efforts.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Efland is crucial. These practices, potentially excelling in COPD management, may demonstrate best practices in several key areas. Firstly, the proactive use of spirometry, a diagnostic test for COPD, is critical. Practices actively screening at-risk patients, such as smokers and those with respiratory symptoms, are likely to achieve earlier diagnoses and improved patient outcomes. Secondly, the implementation of comprehensive COPD action plans, tailored to individual patient needs, is a hallmark of effective care. These plans typically include medication management, lifestyle modifications, and strategies for managing exacerbations.

Telemedicine adoption offers a promising avenue for enhancing COPD care, particularly in rural areas like Efland. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Practices actively utilizing telehealth platforms for COPD management can significantly improve patient access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, further enhances the ability to track patient progress and intervene proactively. Investigating which practices within 27243 have embraced telemedicine and the scope of their telehealth services is essential.

The integration of mental health resources into COPD care is often overlooked but is vitally important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize and address these mental health challenges are better equipped to provide holistic care. This involves screening for mental health conditions, providing access to mental health professionals, and incorporating mental health strategies into COPD management plans. Assessing the availability of on-site or readily accessible mental health services within primary care practices in Efland is a key component of this analysis.

Furthermore, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is crucial. These programs, typically involving exercise training, education, and support, can significantly improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the overall quality of life for COPD patients. Identifying the location and accessibility of pulmonary rehabilitation programs within or near 27243 is vital. This includes assessing the program's staffing, equipment, and patient capacity.

Another important factor is the availability of specialized respiratory care. While PCPs are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists is essential for managing complex COPD cases. Assessing the proximity of pulmonologists and the ease of referral pathways from primary care practices is crucial.

Finally, the level of patient education is essential. Practices that actively educate patients about their condition, medication management, and self-management strategies are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. This includes providing educational materials, offering group support sessions, and empowering patients to actively participate in their care. Evaluating the educational resources available to COPD patients within 27243 is essential.

The assessment of COPD care in 27243 is a dynamic process. The information gathered should be continuously updated to reflect changes in physician availability, practice patterns, and healthcare policies. By analyzing these key factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of COPD care within Efland and identify opportunities for improvement. This information can then be used to inform healthcare planning, resource allocation, and quality improvement initiatives.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, map physician locations, and identify areas with limited access to care within the Efland area, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer powerful visualization tools that can help you understand the geographical landscape of healthcare access and identify areas where resources are most needed.