27577, Smithfield, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.17 percent of the residents in 27577 has some form of health insurance. 38.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.85 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 27577 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,399 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27577. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,498 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Smithfield, NC (ZIP Code 27577)

Analyzing the COPD landscape in Smithfield, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27577) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) but also the accessibility and quality of primary care services. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in providing comprehensive COPD care.

The initial challenge lies in accurately gauging the COPD prevalence within the specified ZIP code. While precise data is often proprietary, we can utilize publicly available information from sources like the CDC and state health departments to estimate the prevalence of COPD within Johnston County, where Smithfield is located. This will provide a baseline understanding of the potential patient population. We can then cross-reference this with local demographic data, such as age and smoking history, to refine our estimates.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially compromised patient outcomes. Researching the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 27577 ZIP code is paramount. This requires utilizing online physician directories, insurance provider databases, and potentially contacting local hospitals and clinics directly. Once the number of PCPs is established, it can be compared to the estimated population of Smithfield to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. A favorable ratio, ideally, suggests easier access to care.

Identifying standout primary care practices requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare ecosystem. This involves analyzing online reviews, patient testimonials, and potentially contacting local patient advocacy groups. We can look for practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management, perhaps through specialized programs, certified respiratory therapists on staff, or a focus on patient education. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes should be considered highly. Furthermore, we should examine whether these practices are accepting new patients, a crucial factor in accessibility.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management, all of which can improve patient adherence and reduce hospital readmissions. Evaluating the telemedicine capabilities of local primary care practices is essential. This involves determining if they offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, or access to online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely better equipped to provide accessible and convenient care to COPD patients.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the integration of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Assessing the availability of mental health services within Smithfield is crucial. This involves identifying local therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Furthermore, it's important to determine if primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Practices that prioritize the mental health needs of their COPD patients are demonstrating a holistic approach to care.

Specific practices within Smithfield may be identified as exemplary. For example, a clinic with a dedicated respiratory therapy program, offering pulmonary rehabilitation and patient education classes, would be highly regarded. Another practice that utilizes telemedicine for regular check-ins and medication adjustments could also be considered a standout. Furthermore, a clinic that has a strong partnership with a local mental health provider, ensuring patients have access to counseling and support, would be viewed favorably.

The analysis needs to consider the limitations of the data. Publicly available information might not always be complete or up-to-date. Physician directories may not reflect the current status of a practice. Patient reviews can be subjective. Therefore, the conclusions of this analysis should be considered an informed assessment based on the available information.

The overall 'COPD Score' for Smithfield, NC, will be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for COPD patients, with greater access to care and a more comprehensive approach to management. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine capabilities, or a lack of mental health support.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the COPD landscape in Smithfield. This information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to address any gaps in care.

For a more detailed and visually comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smithfield, including the geographic distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.