27871, Robersonville, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27871, Robersonville, North Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.72 percent of the residents in 27871 has some form of health insurance. 52.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.39 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 27871 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 544 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 110 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27871. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 998 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,356 health care providers accessible to residents in 27871, Robersonville, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Robersonville, NC (ZIP Code 27871)

Analyzing the availability of high-quality primary care and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management in Robersonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 27871) presents a complex picture. This analysis aims to provide a COPD Score, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, specifically focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial for effective COPD care. This score isn't a simple numerical value, but rather a comprehensive assessment of the factors impacting patient outcomes.

The foundation of COPD care rests on accessible and skilled primary care. In Robersonville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the area likely faces challenges common in rural communities: a shortage of PCPs. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals experiencing COPD symptoms. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, is also a key consideration. Patients with COPD often require specialized care, and limited access to pulmonologists necessitates frequent travel to larger cities for consultations and advanced treatments. This travel burden can exacerbate the challenges faced by patients with breathing difficulties, impacting their quality of life and adherence to treatment plans.

Within Robersonville, identifying standout primary care practices is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD management, including early diagnosis through spirometry testing, patient education on disease management, and coordinated care with specialists. A practice excelling in COPD care will likely have dedicated staff trained in pulmonary rehabilitation, a critical component of managing the disease. This rehabilitation focuses on improving lung function, reducing breathlessness, and enhancing overall physical activity. Furthermore, the practice should actively participate in patient education programs, empowering individuals to understand their condition and take an active role in their care. These programs often include information on medication management, smoking cessation, and lifestyle modifications.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving COPD care access in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists can significantly reduce travel burdens and improve patient convenience. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients' vital signs and symptoms, enabling early intervention and preventing hospitalizations. However, the successful implementation of telemedicine requires adequate infrastructure, including reliable internet access and patient access to devices. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Robersonville needs evaluation. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, will receive a higher score in this analysis.

Mental health support is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of COPD care. Living with COPD can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score must consider the availability of mental health resources within the community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources are highly valued. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as co-locating therapists or offering integrated behavioral health services, can significantly improve patient outcomes. The availability of support groups specifically for individuals with COPD and their families is also crucial.

The presence of comprehensive COPD programs is another indicator of quality care. These programs often involve a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and physical therapists, working collaboratively to provide holistic care. Such programs often include pulmonary rehabilitation, patient education, and smoking cessation support. The COPD Score will give high marks to practices affiliated with such programs. These programs should be well-advertised and easily accessible to the community.

Furthermore, the presence of robust patient education materials and resources is critical. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about COPD, including medication management, symptom recognition, and lifestyle modifications, will be rated favorably. This includes providing written materials, online resources, and opportunities for one-on-one education with healthcare professionals. The accessibility of these resources in multiple languages, reflecting the diversity of the community, is also an important consideration.

Finally, the COPD Score will consider the overall community support for COPD patients. This includes the availability of support groups, advocacy organizations, and community-based programs that promote lung health. The presence of partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations, such as the American Lung Association, is a positive indicator. The strength of these community resources can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

In conclusion, evaluating the COPD Score for Robersonville, NC (ZIP code 27871) reveals a healthcare environment facing challenges common in rural areas. Addressing the physician shortage, promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health resources, and supporting comprehensive COPD programs are essential for improving patient outcomes. The quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, and the integration of mental health services are all critical factors. By addressing these areas, Robersonville can enhance its ability to provide effective COPD care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and community health services, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the local healthcare landscape, helping you visualize the areas of greatest need and identify opportunities for improvement.