28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.01 percent of the residents in 28017 has some form of health insurance. 7.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.86 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 28017 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 141 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28017. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 862 health care providers accessible to residents in 28017, Boiling Springs, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Boiling Springs, NC (ZIP Code 28017)

Boiling Springs, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28017), presents a unique landscape for assessing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) care. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' evaluation, focusing on primary care physician availability, the quality of care offered by local doctors, and the resources available to patients managing this chronic respiratory illness. The analysis will incorporate factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all critical components in a holistic approach to COPD management.

The foundation of any COPD score lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In 28017, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the exact ratio for this specific ZIP code requires data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, a general observation is that rural areas often struggle with PCP shortages. If this is the case in Boiling Springs, the COPD score will be negatively impacted.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care offered by the PCPs is paramount. This necessitates evaluating the practices within the area. Are they accepting new patients? Do they have specialized training or experience in pulmonology or chronic respiratory illnesses? Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, including regular spirometry testing and appropriate medication prescriptions? This information can be gleaned from online reviews, practice websites, and potentially, through direct contact with the practices themselves. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to continuing medical education in respiratory care and actively participate in quality improvement programs would receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly those that integrate remote monitoring of vital signs, will be viewed favorably. This is especially relevant for patients with COPD, who may experience exacerbations and benefit from timely intervention. A practice that embraces technology to enhance patient care will undoubtedly contribute to a higher COPD score.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD care is the availability of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential. Does the practice have an in-house mental health provider, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health specialists in the community? Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients will be positively recognized.

Further, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is a significant factor. These programs, which include exercise training, education, and support, can significantly improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the overall quality of life for COPD patients. Does the area have a dedicated pulmonary rehabilitation program, and if so, how accessible is it to patients in 28017? The presence of such programs would positively influence the COPD score.

Analyzing the specific practices in Boiling Springs is essential. Are there any standout practices that have a reputation for excellence in respiratory care? Are there any practices that are known for their patient-centered approach, including clear communication, patient education, and shared decision-making? Identifying these practices and highlighting their strengths is a key part of the COPD score analysis.

Moreover, the availability of support groups and educational resources for COPD patients is important. Are there local support groups where patients can connect with others who are managing the same condition? Are there educational materials available to help patients understand their disease and manage their symptoms? The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management, which is crucial for successful COPD care.

The COPD score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape in Boiling Springs. Factors like changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of specialized services can all influence the score over time. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of COPD care in the area.

The overall COPD score for Boiling Springs, NC (28017) will be determined by weighting the factors discussed above. The weighting will reflect the relative importance of each factor in contributing to the overall quality of COPD care. The final score will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare environment for individuals managing COPD in this community. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing patients and healthcare providers to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

This analysis underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available to COPD patients in Boiling Springs. The availability of PCPs, the quality of care offered by local practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support all play a crucial role in the overall COPD score. By carefully evaluating these factors, we can gain a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities facing patients in this community.

For a more detailed and visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Boiling Springs, including the location of physician practices, the availability of specialized services, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps.