27919, Belvidere, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27919, Belvidere, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.48 percent of the residents in 27919 has some form of health insurance. 40.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.35 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 27919 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 163 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27919. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,218 health care providers accessible to residents in 27919, Belvidere, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Belvidere, NC (ZIP Code 27919)

This analysis assesses the quality of COPD care and primary care availability within Belvidere, North Carolina (ZIP code 27919). The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, focusing on key factors influencing patient outcomes and access to care for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and identifies potential standout practices.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians. Belvidere, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures require access to proprietary databases, a reasonable estimate can be derived from publicly available data on physician distribution within Perquimans County (where Belvidere is located) and North Carolina. This data must be compared to the county's population, and then adjusted for factors like the percentage of the population over 65 (a demographic highly susceptible to COPD) and the prevalence of smoking. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and difficulty in managing chronic conditions like COPD. This, in turn, can lead to poorer health outcomes.

The availability of primary care physicians is not the sole determinant of quality COPD care. The sophistication of the practices, their commitment to evidence-based medicine, and the integration of technology play vital roles. Assessing standout practices requires a deeper dive into specific clinics within the ZIP code. This involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing the types of services offered (e.g., pulmonary function testing, smoking cessation programs), and evaluating the practice's adherence to national guidelines for COPD management. Some clinics might be better equipped than others to offer comprehensive care, including education on medication adherence, pulmonary rehabilitation, and exacerbation management.

Telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Belvidere is a critical indicator. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of patients with COPD. This can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, improve patient adherence to treatment plans, and facilitate earlier intervention in case of exacerbations. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., using connected devices to track lung function), and access to specialist consultations through telehealth platforms.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation, which can significantly impact their quality of life and disease management. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is therefore essential. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. This assessment requires evaluating whether practices offer on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, or resources for managing the psychological impact of COPD.

The quality of COPD care also hinges on the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs provide patients with exercise training, education, and support to improve their lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance their overall well-being. Assessing the availability of these programs involves identifying whether they are offered locally or if patients must travel to access them. The ease of access to pulmonary rehabilitation is a crucial factor in determining the overall quality of COPD care within the community.

Further, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is a critical factor. EHRs enable physicians to track patient progress, share information with specialists, and coordinate care more effectively. Practices with robust EHR systems are better equipped to manage COPD patients, as they can easily access patient data, monitor medication adherence, and identify potential problems early on. Assessing EHR adoption involves determining which practices use these systems and the extent to which they are integrated into their workflows.

Finally, consider the local hospital's role. The proximity and quality of the local hospital, or the nearest hospital, is a factor. Does the hospital have a dedicated pulmonary unit? Does it have the equipment and expertise to handle COPD exacerbations? The hospital's resources are vital for managing acute episodes and providing comprehensive care.

In conclusion, the COPD score for Belvidere (27919) is a complex assessment. While a definitive score requires access to proprietary data, this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the quality of care. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services are all critical factors. The identification of standout practices, those that excel in these areas, is crucial for patients seeking the best possible care. Further research is needed to obtain precise data and conduct a comprehensive evaluation.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Belvidere and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital resources, and potential gaps in care, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility and distribution of healthcare resources, helping patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions.