27824, Engelhard, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina is 3 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.23 percent of the residents in 27824 has some form of health insurance. 50.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.82 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 27824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 417 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6 health care providers accessible to residents in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina.

COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, presents a significant health challenge, particularly in areas with high rates of smoking, environmental pollutants, and limited access to quality healthcare. Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, especially concerning COPD management, is crucial for communities like Engelhard, North Carolina, within ZIP Code 27824. This analysis will delve into the landscape of primary care physicians, their resources, and their ability to address the needs of COPD patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric for assessing healthcare access. In Engelhard, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be lower compared to urban areas. This scarcity of primary care physicians can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like COPD. The specific ratio in 27824 requires further investigation, but it is a critical factor influencing the overall COPD score.

Primary care practices in Engelhard, and the surrounding areas within 27824, should be evaluated based on their ability to provide comprehensive COPD care. This includes the availability of spirometry testing (a key diagnostic tool), access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the ability to prescribe and manage medications effectively. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based COPD management, including patient education and self-management support, will receive higher scores.

Standout practices within the area would be those that have implemented robust COPD management protocols. This may involve employing certified respiratory therapists, offering smoking cessation programs, and actively monitoring patients' lung function. These practices likely prioritize patient education, empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively and reduce exacerbations. Their success often depends on a dedicated team and a patient-centered approach.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing COPD care. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in rural communities, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely, receive medication refills, and participate in virtual pulmonary rehabilitation sessions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing convenient access to care, would be considered higher-scoring. The availability of reliable internet access within the community also impacts the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but they are crucial. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to counseling, support groups, or mental health specialists would receive higher scores. Integrated care models, where mental health services are integrated into primary care, are particularly beneficial.

Specific practices within 27824 need to be assessed individually. This includes the size of the practice, the number of physicians, and the services offered. Furthermore, the practice's affiliation with hospitals or specialty clinics can impact access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists. The availability of after-hours care and emergency services is also a crucial factor, especially for patients who may experience COPD exacerbations.

The COPD score for doctors in 27824 would be a composite score, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of diagnostic and treatment resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. It is also necessary to consider patient reviews and satisfaction surveys. Practices with positive patient feedback, highlighting the quality of care and the responsiveness of the staff, would receive higher scores.

Primary care availability in Engelhard is directly related to the COPD score. The presence of multiple primary care practices, especially those with a focus on respiratory health, would improve the overall score. Conversely, a shortage of physicians and limited resources would negatively impact the score. The geographical distribution of practices within the community is also relevant, ensuring that patients have reasonable access to care.

The evaluation should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the primary care practices. Areas with a high prevalence of COPD, such as communities with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental pollutants, would require more robust healthcare resources. The score should be adjusted to reflect the specific needs of the population.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD score for doctors in 27824 and primary care availability in Engelhard involves a multifaceted analysis. It requires evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of diagnostic and treatment resources, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the feedback from patients. This comprehensive assessment is crucial for identifying areas of strength and weakness in COPD care and for developing strategies to improve patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in Engelhard, including the location of practices, physician density, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. This tool can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.