27872, Roxobel, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.69 percent of the residents in 27872 has some form of health insurance. 58.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.55 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 27872 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 42 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27872. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 545 health care providers accessible to residents in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27872 & Primary Care in Roxobel

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management in ZIP Code 27872 and the specific town of Roxobel, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, a "COPD Score" assessment, considers factors beyond simple physician counts, delving into physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources crucial for COPD patients. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and weakness.

The foundation of this assessment begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. ZIP Code 27872, encompassing the town of Rich Square and surrounding areas, is a rural region. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a smaller number of doctors serving a larger population, can directly impact access to timely care. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, potential delays in COPD diagnosis, treatment, and management. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and publicly available physician directories would be essential to determine the precise ratio within this specific ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the type of physicians available is critical. While primary care physicians (PCPs) are the first point of contact for most patients, including those with COPD, the presence of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is vital. A high-quality COPD Score would reflect the availability of pulmonologists within a reasonable travel distance, ideally within the ZIP code or neighboring areas. The ability to quickly refer patients to specialists for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management is a key indicator of a robust healthcare system for COPD patients.

The quality of care extends beyond the presence of doctors. The adoption of evidence-based practices is crucial. This includes the use of spirometry, a test to diagnose and monitor COPD, as well as adherence to national guidelines for COPD management. The COPD Score would evaluate whether practices within 27872 are actively implementing these practices. Information on this aspect can be gathered through practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially, through surveys or interviews with local physicians.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can help bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care from specialists or receive regular check-ups without having to travel long distances. The COPD Score would assess the adoption of telemedicine by practices in 27872. This includes whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients' vital signs, and educational resources online.

The impact of COPD extends beyond the physical. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score must therefore consider the availability of mental health resources. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who can provide counseling and support. The score would also assess whether practices offer integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work alongside primary care physicians to provide comprehensive care.

Specific to Roxobel, the analysis would delve deeper into the primary care landscape. Roxobel, being a smaller community, might have limited healthcare options. The COPD Score would highlight any standout practices in Roxobel or nearby towns that demonstrate excellence in COPD care. This might include practices that have a strong focus on patient education, offer comprehensive respiratory therapy services, or have a dedicated COPD management program. The score would also identify any gaps in care, such as a lack of specialized services or limited access to mental health support.

A critical component of the COPD Score is the assessment of patient education. Patients with COPD need to be educated about their condition, medications, and lifestyle modifications. The score would evaluate whether practices provide educational materials, offer support groups, and actively engage patients in their care. This includes assessing whether practices have dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses who can provide education and support.

The availability of support services is also crucial. This includes access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which can help patients improve their breathing and quality of life. The COPD Score would assess the availability of these programs within a reasonable travel distance.

Finally, the COPD Score would be a dynamic assessment, recognizing that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates would be necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would also be sensitive to patient feedback, incorporating patient reviews and satisfaction surveys to provide a holistic view of the quality of care.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD Score for doctors in ZIP Code 27872 and primary care availability in Roxobel necessitates a thorough evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialists, the adoption of evidence-based practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement. To visualize this data and gain further insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and patient needs, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome.