27831, Garysburg, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27831, Garysburg, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.45 percent of the residents in 27831 has some form of health insurance. 52.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.98 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 27831 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 374 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27831. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 876 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 397 health care providers accessible to residents in 27831, Garysburg, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Garysburg, NC (ZIP Code 27831)

Analyzing the availability and quality of COPD care within Garysburg, NC (ZIP code 27831) requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll assess the landscape of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage COPD, the presence of specialized resources, and the overall healthcare ecosystem. The goal is to generate a 'COPD Score' that reflects the ease of access and quality of care for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The initial factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. This is crucial. Garysburg is a small, rural community. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 27831 ZIP code is the starting point. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to estimate this number. However, simply counting physicians isn't enough. We must consider the patient population within Garysburg and the surrounding areas that these PCPs serve. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care, directly impacting the COPD Score.

Next, we examine the specific capabilities of the PCPs. Are they equipped to effectively manage COPD? This involves assessing their training, experience, and the resources available within their practices. Do they have access to spirometry equipment for accurate lung function testing? Do they routinely utilize evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, including medication adherence, pulmonary rehabilitation, and smoking cessation programs? Gathering information on these aspects requires a combination of publicly available data (if available) and potentially contacting local practices directly. The degree to which PCPs are equipped and adhere to best practices significantly influences the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption plays a vital role. In a rural setting, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and provide convenient access to specialist consultations and ongoing monitoring. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in 27831 is essential. Do they offer virtual appointments for follow-up visits? Do they utilize remote monitoring devices to track patient symptoms and medication adherence? The presence and utilization of telemedicine services can significantly improve the COPD Score, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized resources is critical. Are there pulmonologists or respiratory therapists readily accessible within or near Garysburg? The proximity and accessibility of these specialists directly impact the quality of COPD care. Do local hospitals or clinics offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs? These programs provide structured exercise and education to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. The availability of these specialized resources is a major factor in determining the COPD Score.

Mental health resources also warrant consideration. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the community is crucial. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists, accessible to patients? Do PCPs have established referral pathways for mental health support? The presence of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them directly influences the COPD Score.

Identifying standout practices is valuable. Are there any primary care practices in 27831 that demonstrate exceptional commitment to COPD care? This might involve practices with a high level of spirometry utilization, strong patient education programs, or a proven track record of positive patient outcomes. Highlighting these practices can serve as a model for others and improve the overall COPD Score. This requires a detailed examination of practice characteristics and patient outcomes.

The overall healthcare ecosystem in Garysburg influences the COPD Score. This includes factors such as the availability of pharmacies, transportation options for patients, and the presence of community support groups. The ease with which patients can access medications, attend appointments, and connect with peers can significantly impact their ability to manage their COPD effectively.

To generate a COPD Score, we would assign numerical values to each of these factors. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio might receive a lower score, while the widespread adoption of telemedicine would receive a higher score. The final COPD Score would be a composite measure, reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of COPD care in Garysburg.

This analysis is a snapshot of the healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, resource allocation, and technological advancements. It is also important to acknowledge that this analysis relies on publicly available data and information gathered from local sources. The accuracy of the COPD Score depends on the quality and completeness of this data.

Finally, the analysis can be enhanced by utilizing mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can be used to visualize the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant resources within and around the 27831 ZIP code. This visual representation can provide a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify potential areas for improvement.