27606, Raleigh, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27606, Raleigh, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.00 percent of the residents in 27606 has some form of health insurance. 18.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.06 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 27606 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,547 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 36 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27606. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,711 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 25,031 health care providers accessible to residents in 27606, Raleigh, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Raleigh, NC (ZIP Code 27606)

This analysis assesses the landscape of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) care within Raleigh, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 27606 ZIP code. The evaluation considers primary care physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all factors significantly impacting the quality of COPD management. We aim to provide a COPD Score, a composite indicator of the overall support system available to individuals managing this chronic respiratory illness.

The 27606 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of central Raleigh, presents a diverse population. The prevalence of COPD, while difficult to pinpoint with exactitude within this specific area, is likely influenced by factors common to urban environments, including air quality, smoking history, and socioeconomic determinants of health. Access to timely and effective primary care is paramount for COPD patients, as these physicians often serve as the initial point of contact for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical component of the COPD Score. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other sources suggest that while Raleigh, in general, has a relatively good physician-to-patient ratio compared to rural areas, the distribution of primary care physicians within the 27606 ZIP code might vary. Areas closer to major hospitals and medical centers, such as WakeMed Raleigh Campus, may have a higher concentration of physicians, potentially creating pockets of better access. Conversely, areas further from these centers could experience lower physician density, impacting the COPD Score negatively.

Standout primary care practices within 27606 play a crucial role in shaping the COPD Score. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care, including early diagnosis through spirometry testing, personalized treatment plans, patient education, and regular monitoring, will receive a higher rating. Practices employing certified respiratory therapists or offering pulmonary rehabilitation programs significantly improve their score. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication with specialists and efficient medication management is also highly valued. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and adhere to national guidelines for COPD management will be considered superior.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important for COPD care, particularly for patients who may have mobility limitations or live in areas with limited access to specialists. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient education materials will receive a higher score. Telemedicine can facilitate medication adherence, reduce hospital readmissions, and improve overall patient outcomes. The availability of telehealth services directly translates to a better COPD Score, especially for patients managing their condition at home.

The connection between COPD and mental health is well-established. Anxiety, depression, and social isolation are common comorbidities in COPD patients. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of the COPD Score. Practices that screen for mental health issues, provide on-site counseling, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists will be rated more favorably. Integration of mental health services into COPD care is essential for holistic patient management and improved quality of life. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, also contributes to a higher COPD Score, offering patients a vital network of support and shared experience.

To determine a comprehensive COPD Score, we would need to gather specific data on physician-to-patient ratios within 27606, analyze the practices' adherence to COPD guidelines, assess their telemedicine capabilities, and evaluate their mental health resource integration. This involves a thorough review of publicly available information, surveys of local practices, and potentially, patient feedback. The final score would be a composite of these factors, weighted according to their relative importance in influencing patient outcomes.

The overall COPD Score for 27606 is likely to be influenced by the concentration of healthcare resources, the practices' commitment to comprehensive COPD care, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health services. While Raleigh, in general, benefits from a relatively robust healthcare system, disparities in access and quality of care may exist within the 27606 ZIP code. Addressing these disparities through targeted interventions, such as expanding telemedicine access, increasing the availability of mental health services, and promoting best practices in COPD management, is crucial for improving the COPD Score and enhancing the lives of individuals living with this chronic respiratory illness.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape within 27606 and to visualize the distribution of resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to analyze geographical data, identify areas of high and low access to care, and gain valuable insights into the specific needs of the community.