28072, Granite Quarry, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28072, Granite Quarry, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.04 percent of the residents in 28072 has some form of health insurance. 29.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.63 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 28072 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28072. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 114 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,234 health care providers accessible to residents in 28072, Granite Quarry, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Granite Quarry, NC (ZIP Code 28072)**

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and their preparedness to manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Granite Quarry, North Carolina (ZIP code 28072) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effective COPD management. A "COPD Score," though not a formal metric, will be derived from these factors to gauge the overall quality of care.

The foundation of COPD care rests on accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, reflecting a scarcity of physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent follow-up appointments, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. Determining the exact ratio for 28072 requires data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. Assuming a conservative estimate based on similar rural areas, the ratio likely falls below the national average, which can present challenges.

The quality of care is also influenced by the practices within the area. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors such as physician experience, patient reviews, and accreditation status. Practices with a strong focus on pulmonary health, evidenced by specialized equipment, dedicated respiratory therapists, and participation in COPD-specific programs, would score higher. These practices would likely have a more comprehensive approach to COPD management, including early detection, aggressive treatment plans, and patient education.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly vital, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access care remotely. Practices that utilize telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education would receive a higher score. The availability of virtual consultations can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations.

Mental health is a crucial, often overlooked, component of COPD management. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with its impact on breathing and daily activities, can lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, would be considered more comprehensive. This integration supports a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease.

Considering these factors, we can begin to formulate a COPD score for Granite Quarry. Given the likely physician-to-patient ratio, the score might be initially moderate. However, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources can significantly elevate this score. A practice with a strong focus on pulmonary care, embracing telemedicine for follow-up visits, and collaborating with mental health professionals would contribute positively to the overall score.

Conversely, a practice with a high patient load, limited resources for COPD management, and a lack of mental health support would negatively affect the score. The overall COPD score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment based on the evolving healthcare landscape. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure the best possible care for COPD patients.

The specific practices in 28072 need individual assessment. This involves investigating their websites, contacting them directly, and reviewing patient feedback. Identifying practices that actively participate in COPD-specific programs, such as those offered by the American Lung Association or the COPD Foundation, would be a significant positive indicator. These programs often provide valuable resources for both patients and physicians.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) also plays a role. EHRs facilitate better communication between healthcare providers, improve medication management, and allow for more efficient tracking of patient progress. Practices that utilize comprehensive EHR systems would score higher in this area.

The availability of support groups and patient education materials is another critical factor. Support groups provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with each other, share experiences, and learn coping strategies. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources would contribute to a higher COPD score.

The final score is a composite of all these elements. It reflects the overall quality of care available to COPD patients in Granite Quarry. The score should be viewed as a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, and a catalyst for improvement.

The evaluation process is continuous. Healthcare is constantly evolving, with new treatments, technologies, and approaches emerging. Regular reassessment is necessary to ensure that the COPD score accurately reflects the current state of care. This ongoing evaluation allows for adjustments to improve the score.

The goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals with COPD. By understanding the available resources, identifying areas for improvement, and promoting best practices, we can create a healthcare environment that supports effective COPD management. This involves collaboration between physicians, patients, and the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Granite Quarry, including the location of practices, physician specialties, and other relevant data, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing complex data and identifying areas where resources are needed.