27823, Enfield, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27823, Enfield, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.08 percent of the residents in 27823 has some form of health insurance. 51.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.75 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 27823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,438 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27823. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,344 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,792 health care providers accessible to residents in 27823, Enfield, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27823 and Primary Care Availability in Enfield**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services, focusing specifically on the context of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) management, within ZIP code 27823, which encompasses Enfield, North Carolina. The objective is to provide a comprehensive COPD score, evaluating factors critical to patient care, including physician access, resource availability, and innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. This analysis will not use lists.

Enfield, a rural community, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery, particularly concerning chronic illnesses like COPD. The prevalence of COPD is often higher in rural areas due to factors like smoking rates, environmental exposures, and limited access to preventative care. Therefore, assessing the primary care landscape is vital for understanding the community's capacity to address this significant health concern.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access**

The cornerstone of effective COPD management is access to a primary care physician (PCP). The physician-to-patient ratio in 27823 is a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced continuity of care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment. Data from state health agencies and national databases like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) are essential to determine this ratio accurately. This information reveals the number of PCPs practicing in the area and the estimated population they serve.

Furthermore, it's necessary to evaluate the types of PCPs available. Are there enough family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners? The diversity of healthcare providers is essential to cater to the varied needs of the patient population. A shortage of any of these can create bottlenecks in the system.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within 27823 is crucial. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in COPD management. This involves examining their patient outcomes, adherence to COPD treatment guidelines, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that have implemented comprehensive COPD management programs, including pulmonary rehabilitation, smoking cessation programs, and patient education, are particularly noteworthy.

Evaluating the use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also important. EHRs facilitate better care coordination, medication management, and data analysis, which are all essential for effective COPD management. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are likely to provide a higher level of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in 27823 is a significant factor in the COPD score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Telemedicine can be used for various purposes, including medication management, monitoring of symptoms, and providing patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and offer remote monitoring of patients' vital signs, like oxygen saturation and heart rate, are contributing significantly to improving COPD care.

**Mental Health Resources and COPD**

COPD often co-occurs with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is a critical component of the COPD score.

Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD management programs, either through on-site therapists or strong referral partnerships, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This includes providing access to mental health professionals, support groups, and educational resources.

**Specific Considerations for Enfield**

Enfield's specific demographics and socioeconomic factors must be considered. The prevalence of certain risk factors for COPD, such as smoking and occupational exposures, may be higher in this area. This necessitates a focus on preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and early detection strategies.

The socioeconomic status of the community also plays a role. Patients with lower incomes may face barriers to accessing healthcare, such as transportation costs, medication expenses, and lack of health insurance. Practices that offer financial assistance programs or work with community organizations to address these barriers are contributing to a higher COPD score.

**Overall COPD Score and Conclusion**

The COPD score for doctors in 27823 and primary care availability in Enfield is a composite measure based on the factors discussed above. It reflects the capacity of the healthcare system to provide accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive COPD care. The score will vary depending on the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The COPD score is not just a numerical rating; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, stakeholders can work together to improve COPD care.

**Call to Action**

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and other relevant factors within ZIP code 27823, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization capabilities, allowing you to explore the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. Visit CartoChrome to explore the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in Enfield.