27253, Graham, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27253, Graham, North Carolina is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.23 percent of the residents in 27253 has some form of health insurance. 40.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.95 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 27253 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,710 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27253. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,720 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,040 health care providers accessible to residents in 27253, Graham, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Graham, NC (ZIP Code 27253)

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care in Graham, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27253) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care, and the integration of resources for patients managing this debilitating respiratory illness. We will explore the physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in determining a COPD Score for the area.

The foundation of COPD management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, enabling more frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and proactive disease management. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with publicly available information on physician practices within the 27253 ZIP code, is essential to determine this ratio accurately. This data would ideally be updated regularly to reflect physician turnover and population shifts.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Practices that consistently prioritize patient education, provide comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFTs), and adhere to established COPD treatment guidelines will score higher. These practices often employ certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) and offer patient education programs, empowering patients to actively manage their condition. Identifying standout practices requires analyzing patient reviews, assessing the availability of specialized equipment, and evaluating the integration of evidence-based practices. The presence of a dedicated COPD clinic within a practice would be a significant positive factor, signifying a focused approach to patient care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in COPD management, particularly for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of vital signs, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring devices, would receive a higher score. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine data into the patient's electronic health record (EHR) are all important considerations.

COPD significantly impacts mental health. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations it imposes, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or through referrals to mental health professionals, would score higher. The presence of support groups, educational programs on managing anxiety and depression, and access to behavioral therapy are all positive indicators. The integration of mental health screenings into routine check-ups is also a significant benefit.

The overall COPD Score for Graham, NC (27253) is a composite measure reflecting the interplay of these factors. A high score signifies excellent access to primary care, high-quality treatment, the effective use of telemedicine, and robust mental health support. A lower score indicates areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, or a lack of integrated mental health services. This score provides a valuable benchmark for assessing the current state of COPD care and identifying areas for targeted interventions.

To further refine this analysis, a deeper dive into specific practices within the 27253 ZIP code is necessary. This would involve examining patient satisfaction surveys, reviewing practice websites, and conducting interviews with healthcare professionals. Data on the prevalence of COPD within the community, obtained from public health sources, would also be invaluable. This would allow for a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in providing COPD care.

The integration of data from various sources, including physician directories, patient reviews, and public health records, is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. This data should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The use of geographic information systems (GIS) can be particularly helpful in visualizing access to care and identifying areas where resources are most needed. Mapping the locations of physician practices, pharmacies, and mental health services allows for a spatial analysis of resource distribution.

The commitment to providing high-quality COPD care requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Regular assessments of the COPD Score, combined with feedback from patients and healthcare providers, can help identify areas for improvement and guide the development of targeted interventions. This iterative process is essential for ensuring that patients with COPD receive the best possible care.

Understanding the availability and quality of care for individuals managing COPD is paramount. Access to resources, the quality of care, and the availability of mental health support are all crucial elements. To visualize the distribution of resources and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Graham, NC (27253), consider exploring interactive maps.

**Take action and explore the healthcare landscape of Graham, NC (27253) with CartoChrome maps. Visualize the distribution of physicians, pharmacies, and other essential resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of COPD care availability.**