27302, Mebane, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27302, Mebane, North Carolina is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.27 percent of the residents in 27302 has some form of health insurance. 30.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.39 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 27302 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,489 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27302. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,947 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,872 health care providers accessible to residents in 27302, Mebane, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Mebane, NC (ZIP Code 27302) – A Primary Care Perspective

Analyzing the landscape of primary care in Mebane, North Carolina (ZIP code 27302), through the lens of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to manage COPD patients, and the resources available within the community to support effective COPD care. The goal is to provide a COPD Score ranking, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in this specific geographical area.

The foundation of COPD care rests on accessible and qualified primary care. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the system, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient visit, and a diminished ability for PCPs to provide comprehensive care. Data suggests that the national average physician-to-patient ratio is around 1:400, though this fluctuates depending on geographic location and specialty. In Mebane, we need to determine the specific ratio, accounting for both the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 27302 ZIP code and the estimated population. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates from the US Census Bureau, will provide the raw data needed to calculate this crucial ratio. This will significantly influence the COPD Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Assessing the training and experience of the PCPs in Mebane is vital. Do they possess specific expertise in pulmonary medicine or chronic disease management? Are they board-certified in internal medicine or family medicine, indicating a commitment to maintaining a high standard of care? Investigating the continuing medical education (CME) records of these physicians can reveal their engagement with the latest advancements in COPD diagnosis, treatment, and management. This information can be obtained through public records or through direct inquiries with the practices. Practices with physicians who actively participate in COPD-focused CME will receive a higher COPD Score.

Identifying standout practices within Mebane is essential. These practices often serve as models for best practices in COPD care. Factors to consider include the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, the availability of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT), and the integration of patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and track patient outcomes related to COPD will also be highly regarded. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses specializing in COPD care within a practice significantly enhances its ability to provide comprehensive support.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers several advantages in COPD management, including remote monitoring of patients' vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, particularly those that integrate with electronic health records (EHRs) and allow for seamless communication between patients and physicians, will receive a higher score. This is especially important for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas, as it reduces the need for frequent in-person visits.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD care, yet they are crucial. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, within the Mebane community is a vital component of a comprehensive COPD care system. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will score higher. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers is crucial for providing holistic care.

The integration of these factors will determine the overall COPD Score for the primary care landscape in Mebane. The score will reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of COPD care available to residents. A higher score indicates a more robust and patient-centered system, while a lower score highlights areas needing improvement.

In conclusion, the COPD Score analysis provides a valuable assessment of primary care resources in Mebane, NC. It reveals the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure and offers insights into areas where improvements can be made. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, physician qualifications, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the level of COPD care available in this community.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that allow you to overlay demographic data, physician locations, and other relevant information, providing a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mebane and beyond. This visual approach can enhance your understanding of the challenges and opportunities in COPD care within the community.