28147, Salisbury, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28147, Salisbury, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.49 percent of the residents in 28147 has some form of health insurance. 39.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.78 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 28147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,970 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,790 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,321 health care providers accessible to residents in 28147, Salisbury, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Salisbury, NC (ZIP Code 28147)

Analyzing the quality of COPD care and primary care availability in Salisbury, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28147) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will examine key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately generating a COPD Score. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing COPD in this specific locale.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially compromised management of chronic conditions like COPD. In Salisbury, the availability of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and other specialists is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can be utilized to calculate these ratios. The analysis must consider not only the raw numbers but also the distribution of physicians across different practices and specialties. Rural areas, like some parts of Salisbury, often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, potentially impacting these ratios negatively.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in COPD management through factors like patient outcomes, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and patient satisfaction. Evaluating practices involves examining their use of spirometry, a critical diagnostic tool for COPD. Furthermore, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are vital for improving lung function and quality of life, needs assessment. Examining patient reviews, participating in quality improvement initiatives, and achieving recognition from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can also identify leading practices. Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to COPD often demonstrate a commitment to staying at the forefront of care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of patients’ conditions, potentially improving access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., for oxygen saturation or peak flow), and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. The analysis should evaluate the specific telemedicine platforms used, their ease of use, and the level of patient satisfaction with these services.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the primary care practices or through referrals. It is crucial to determine the integration of mental health services into COPD management, including screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling, and offering support groups. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and integrate these services into their care plans demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient well-being. The presence of support groups specifically for individuals with COPD and their caregivers is also a positive indicator.

Synthesizing the data from these key areas will allow for the creation of a COPD Score. The score will be a composite measure, reflecting the overall quality of COPD care and primary care availability in Salisbury. The score will be based on a weighted average of the different factors analyzed, with physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contributing to the final assessment. The weighting of each factor should be based on its relative importance in influencing patient outcomes and access to care.

The COPD Score will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Salisbury. However, it is essential to recognize that this score is a dynamic measure. The healthcare environment is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and challenges emerging. Regular updates and re-evaluations are necessary to maintain the accuracy and relevance of the COPD Score.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence COPD outcomes. Factors such as income levels, access to transportation, and health literacy can all impact a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively. The analysis should acknowledge these factors and consider their impact on the overall assessment.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of COPD care in Salisbury, NC (ZIP Code 28147) requires a thorough examination of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The COPD Score will provide a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement. This analysis, when combined with other data sources, can provide a valuable foundation for improving COPD care and patient outcomes in Salisbury.

This analysis is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individuals with COPD should consult with their healthcare providers for personalized care and treatment plans.

For a visual representation of this data and to explore the healthcare landscape of Salisbury, NC, and other areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.