27891, Whitakers, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27891, Whitakers, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.68 percent of the residents in 27891 has some form of health insurance. 41.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.58 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 27891 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 873 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27891. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 860 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 411 health care providers accessible to residents in 27891, Whitakers, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: 27891 and Whitakers Primary Care

The evaluation of COPD care within ZIP Code 27891, encompassing the town of Whitakers, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the quality of care offered, and the resources available to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A comprehensive COPD Score, although not a formal, standardized metric, is generated by considering several critical factors. This analysis offers insights into the current state of COPD management and suggests potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of COPD care relies heavily on accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per PCP, can hinder timely appointments and comprehensive care. In Whitakers, the rural nature and potential for limited healthcare infrastructure raise concerns about this ratio. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and publicly available sources can provide estimates, but a precise determination requires detailed investigation of the active, practicing physicians within the ZIP code and their patient panels. This data is essential to understand the burden on existing PCPs.

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the quality of care is paramount. The COPD Score considers factors such as the experience and specialization of the PCPs. Are there pulmonologists or respiratory therapists readily accessible within the community or requiring travel to larger cities like Rocky Mount? Are PCPs well-versed in the latest COPD guidelines, including the GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) recommendations? Do they routinely perform spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for COPD? The availability of these resources directly impacts the early diagnosis and management of the disease.

Standout practices within the 27891 ZIP code, if any, could significantly improve the COPD Score. These practices may demonstrate excellence through their proactive approach to COPD management. This includes implementing structured COPD education programs for patients, offering regular follow-up appointments, and actively managing medication adherence. Furthermore, exceptional practices often collaborate with specialists, such as pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, to provide a multidisciplinary approach to care. Identifying these exemplary practices requires an examination of patient outcomes, physician reviews, and the adoption of best practices in COPD care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the COPD Score. Telemedicine, especially during times of limited mobility or during public health emergencies, can significantly improve access to care for COPD patients. This includes virtual consultations with PCPs, remote monitoring of vital signs, and access to respiratory therapists via video conferencing. The degree to which local practices have integrated telemedicine into their workflow is a key indicator of their responsiveness to patient needs and their ability to provide accessible care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are a crucial aspect of the overall health of patients. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score must consider the availability of mental health services within the community. Are there therapists or psychiatrists available to address these issues? Do PCPs screen patients for mental health concerns? The integration of mental health services into COPD care is essential for improving patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of community resources. This includes access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, support groups, and educational materials. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, are proven to improve lung function and quality of life for COPD patients. The presence and accessibility of these resources within the Whitakers community significantly influence the COPD Score.

Medication management is another critical aspect of COPD care. The COPD Score should consider the ease of access to necessary medications. Are there pharmacies within the community that stock the required medications? Are there programs to help patients afford their medications? Medication adherence is a major challenge for COPD patients, and access to affordable medications is essential for effective management.

The COPD Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It reflects the evolving healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve COPD care. The score is influenced by several factors, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of community resources.

The analysis reveals a need for further investigation into the specific practices within the 27891 ZIP code. A comprehensive review of the available data is necessary to provide a precise COPD Score. This includes gathering data on physician availability, reviewing patient outcomes, and assessing the adoption of best practices in COPD care. The analysis suggests that the rural nature of Whitakers may pose challenges to access to care.

The findings of this analysis can be used to inform healthcare planning and resource allocation. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, healthcare providers and policymakers can work together to improve COPD care in the community. The goal is to ensure that all COPD patients in Whitakers have access to the best possible care and resources.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 27891 and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, including healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics. This visual approach can enhance the understanding of the challenges and opportunities in COPD care within the community.