27863, Pikeville, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.59 percent of the residents in 27863 has some form of health insurance. 30.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.29 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 27863 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,556 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27863. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,528 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Pikeville, NC (ZIP Code 27863)

This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians and related resources in Pikeville, North Carolina (ZIP code 27863), with a specific focus on factors relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health services, all crucial components for effective COPD care.

Pikeville, a small town in Wayne County, faces challenges common to rural communities, including potential limitations in healthcare access. Evaluating the healthcare landscape requires a nuanced understanding of the local resources and how they address the needs of individuals living with COPD. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the system.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. Determining the exact ratio within ZIP code 27863 requires data from sources such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, general trends can be inferred. Rural areas often experience a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to urban centers. This disparity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists, and increased travel distances for patients. This is particularly concerning for COPD patients, who require regular monitoring and prompt access to care during exacerbations.

Identifying standout practices within Pikeville is crucial. These practices may demonstrate innovative approaches to COPD management, such as comprehensive patient education programs, proactive disease management protocols, or strong partnerships with pulmonary specialists. Researching practices that offer specialized COPD clinics or programs, or that have a strong track record of patient outcomes, is essential. Information regarding the use of spirometry, a key diagnostic tool for COPD, and adherence to national guidelines, such as those from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), would be valuable.

Telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Pikeville, and specifically by primary care physicians, is a critical factor. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the availability of telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual check-ups, remote monitoring), and patient satisfaction with these services is vital. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their COPD care models are likely to be more accessible and provide more convenient care.

Mental health is inextricably linked to COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, its impact on breathing, and the associated limitations in daily activities can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive COPD care. This includes the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the community or through telehealth services. Assessing the presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices, or the existence of referral pathways to mental health providers, is essential. The ability to address the psychological needs of COPD patients is a key indicator of the quality of care.

Further considerations include the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, are proven to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for COPD patients. The presence of such programs within Pikeville or in nearby communities is a positive indicator. Similarly, access to respiratory therapists and other allied healthcare professionals is important for providing comprehensive care.

Evaluating the availability of COPD-specific resources, such as support groups or patient education materials, is also important. These resources can empower patients to manage their condition effectively and improve their overall well-being. Assessing the presence of these resources, and their accessibility to patients, is a key factor in the COPD Score analysis.

The COPD Score analysis for Pikeville (27863) necessitates gathering data from multiple sources. This includes contacting local primary care practices, reviewing online directories of healthcare providers, and consulting with public health officials. The analysis should consider the following factors: physician-to-patient ratio, presence of specialized COPD programs, adoption of telemedicine, availability of mental health services, and access to pulmonary rehabilitation.

The quality of COPD care in Pikeville is directly impacted by the availability and accessibility of resources. The ability to provide comprehensive care, including medical management, patient education, and mental health support, is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. A high COPD Score would reflect a healthcare system that effectively addresses the multifaceted needs of individuals living with this chronic disease.

The overall goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape in Pikeville, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients to make informed decisions and advocate for better COPD care.

For a detailed, interactive map visualizing the healthcare resources in Pikeville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specialties, and telemedicine availability, please visit CartoChrome maps.