28098, Lowell, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28098, Lowell, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.21 percent of the residents in 28098 has some form of health insurance. 38.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.04 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 28098 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 789 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28098. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 563 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 16,748 health care providers accessible to residents in 28098, Lowell, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Lowell, NC (ZIP Code 28098)

This analysis delves into the landscape of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) care within Lowell, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28098), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. The goal is to generate a “COPD Score” assessment, examining factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment, ultimately guiding patients and healthcare providers alike.

Lowell, a town nestled within Gaston County, presents a unique healthcare profile. While the exact prevalence of COPD within the 28098 ZIP code is difficult to ascertain without granular data, national averages suggest a significant portion of the population may be affected, particularly given the potential for environmental factors and aging demographics. Therefore, the availability and quality of primary care, the cornerstone of COPD management, become paramount.

One of the most critical factors in evaluating COPD care is the physician-to-patient ratio. Unfortunately, precise, up-to-the-minute ratios for specific ZIP codes are challenging to obtain due to constant fluctuations in physician staffing and patient demographics. However, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide estimates. An unfavorable physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnoses and treatment for COPD. This negatively impacts the COPD Score.

Within Lowell, the presence of standout primary care practices is a crucial indicator of quality. These practices often differentiate themselves through factors such as patient-centered care models, specialized COPD management programs, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in respiratory medicine. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), generally indicate a higher standard of care. Examining patient reviews, online ratings, and referrals from specialists can help identify these leading practices. These practices, through their commitment to excellence, contribute positively to the overall COPD Score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element in assessing COPD care. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital education, offers significant advantages for COPD patients. It can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or living in rural areas. It also facilitates more frequent monitoring of symptoms, allowing for early intervention and potentially preventing exacerbations. Practices actively embracing telemedicine technologies, such as offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits or utilizing remote monitoring devices to track patient vital signs, receive a higher score in this assessment. This modern approach to healthcare is a positive influence on the overall COPD Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, yet they are critical. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, access to mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care, is essential for comprehensive COPD management. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to readily accessible specialists, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of these resources significantly elevates the COPD Score.

Furthermore, the presence of pulmonary rehabilitation programs within or near Lowell is a significant factor. Pulmonary rehabilitation, a structured program involving exercise, education, and support, has been shown to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for COPD patients. The accessibility and quality of these programs directly influence the COPD Score. The closer these programs are, the better the score.

Specifics on individual practices are difficult to give without violating privacy. However, practices that have a patient portal, allow for easy communication, and provide educational materials on COPD management are more likely to provide better care. This is a positive influence on the overall COPD Score.

The availability of specialized respiratory care within the area is also an important factor. This includes access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists who can provide advanced diagnostic testing, treatment, and management of COPD complications. A strong network of specialists enhances the overall COPD Score.

In summary, the COPD Score for Lowell, NC (28098) is a complex assessment. It relies on multiple factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, access to mental health resources, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The score is also influenced by the presence of specialists and the overall commitment of the healthcare community to providing comprehensive COPD care. The higher the score, the better the care.

To gain a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lowell, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and other healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore interactive mapping tools. For a powerful and user-friendly experience, we recommend using **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution of healthcare providers, helping patients and healthcare professionals make informed decisions.