28152, Shelby, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28152, Shelby, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.20 percent of the residents in 28152 has some form of health insurance. 41.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.00 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 28152 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,481 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28152. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,338 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,110 health care providers accessible to residents in 28152, Shelby, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Shelby, NC (ZIP Code 28152)

This analysis delves into the landscape of COPD care within Shelby, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 28152 ZIP code. We aim to provide a COPD Score assessment, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care resources, particularly concerning COPD management. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all critical factors in delivering comprehensive care to individuals living with COPD.

Shelby, a city in Cleveland County, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its size and demographic profile influence the demand for healthcare services, especially for chronic conditions like COPD, which often disproportionately affects older adults and those with a history of smoking. Understanding the healthcare ecosystem within the 28152 ZIP code is crucial for patients seeking optimal care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall physician density in Cleveland County, and therefore within the 28152 ZIP code, is a critical factor. A lower physician-to-patient ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care physicians, who are often the first point of contact for COPD patients. Analyzing the specific ratio for primary care physicians, especially those with experience in pulmonology or chronic respiratory conditions, is crucial. This analysis would require data on the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 28152 ZIP code and comparing that to the population residing in that area. Public health data, insurance provider information, and local medical society records would be essential resources for this determination.

Identifying standout practices within Shelby requires a nuanced approach. Assessing factors like patient reviews, the range of services offered, and physician qualifications is important. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management often have dedicated programs, including pulmonary rehabilitation services, smoking cessation support, and regular patient education. Practices that actively engage in preventative care, such as offering flu shots and pneumonia vaccinations, also contribute to a higher COPD Score. Moreover, a practice’s adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and its interoperability with other healthcare providers are essential. EHRs facilitate better communication and coordination of care, leading to improved outcomes for COPD patients.

Telemedicine has become increasingly significant in healthcare delivery, especially for managing chronic conditions. Its adoption within the 28152 ZIP code can significantly impact COPD care. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of patient symptoms, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine services for COPD management, including virtual check-ups and remote monitoring of lung function, would receive a higher COPD Score. The availability of user-friendly telemedicine platforms and the integration of these platforms with existing patient care workflows are also crucial considerations.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling services and support groups, within the 28152 ZIP code is therefore a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to mental health professionals or offer in-house mental health services contribute to a higher COPD Score. Collaborations between primary care physicians and mental health providers are especially beneficial, ensuring a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized COPD resources within the 28152 ZIP code is important. This includes access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The presence of these resources indicates a higher level of care and a more comprehensive approach to managing COPD. Practices that have established relationships with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, or that offer on-site pulmonary rehabilitation services, would be favorably considered in the COPD Score assessment.

The impact of insurance coverage and access to medications on COPD care within the 28152 ZIP code is undeniable. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is a critical factor in ensuring that patients can afford the care they need. Practices that are actively involved in assisting patients with insurance navigation and medication affordability programs contribute to a higher COPD Score. Moreover, the availability of affordable medications, including inhalers and other respiratory medications, is crucial for effective COPD management.

The COPD Score assessment should also consider the practice’s commitment to patient education. Providing patients with clear and concise information about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies is essential for improving outcomes. Practices that offer educational materials, conduct patient education sessions, or provide access to online resources receive a higher COPD Score. Patient empowerment is a key element of successful COPD management.

Finally, the overall quality of care is not solely determined by the availability of resources but also by the patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction, actively seek patient feedback, and implement measures to improve the patient experience will receive a higher COPD Score. This includes factors such as wait times, communication with physicians, and the overall atmosphere of the practice.

In conclusion, evaluating the COPD Score for doctors in the 28152 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. The analysis should consider physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall patient experience. By assessing these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in Shelby, NC, and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Shelby, NC, and to gain a deeper understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care physicians and specialists, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare access and availability, allowing for a more informed assessment of COPD care within the 28152 ZIP code.