28213, Charlotte, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28213, Charlotte, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.00 percent of the residents in 28213 has some form of health insurance. 26.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.17 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 28213 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,705 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 83 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28213. An estimate of 68 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,876 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 57,993 health care providers accessible to residents in 28213, Charlotte, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Charlotte, NC (ZIP Code 28213) & Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of primary care and COPD management within Charlotte, North Carolina's 28213 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, aiming to generate a "COPD Score" for the area, considers factors impacting patient access, quality of care, and overall well-being. The score isn't a single number but a composite assessment based on various indicators.

One of the most critical elements is the physician-to-patient ratio. In 28213, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts access to care for individuals with COPD. Higher ratios, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally correlate with easier appointment scheduling, shorter wait times, and more personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio can lead to overburdened physicians, potentially affecting the time dedicated to each patient and the thoroughness of their COPD management plans. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are crucial for determining these ratios accurately.

Furthermore, the availability of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists within the ZIP code significantly impacts the COPD Score. These specialists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of the disease. The proximity of these specialists to patients, along with the ease of referral from primary care physicians, is a key factor. Areas with a higher concentration of specialists and efficient referral pathways will score higher in this aspect. The presence of specialized COPD clinics or programs within hospitals or practices is also a positive indicator.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care is paramount. This involves assessing the adherence to established COPD guidelines, such as those from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). Practices that consistently follow these guidelines, offering comprehensive care plans including medication management, pulmonary rehabilitation, and smoking cessation programs, will receive a higher score. Reviewing patient outcomes, such as hospital readmission rates for COPD exacerbations and patient satisfaction scores, can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

Identifying standout practices is a crucial part of the analysis. Practices that demonstrate exceptional COPD management strategies, such as proactive patient education, readily available respiratory therapy services, and a strong focus on preventative care, deserve recognition. These practices often serve as models for other providers in the area. Investigating their workflows, patient communication strategies, and use of technology can highlight best practices that can be replicated elsewhere.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital component of the COPD Score. Telehealth allows patients, especially those with mobility issues or residing in underserved areas, to access care remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even pulmonary rehabilitation can improve patient access and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track oxygen saturation and peak flow, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in COPD management.

Mental health resources also play a significant role in the overall well-being of COPD patients. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the availability of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them is essential.

The socio-economic factors within 28213 also influence the COPD Score. Factors such as poverty rates, access to transportation, and health insurance coverage can impact a patient's ability to access care and adhere to treatment plans. Areas with higher rates of poverty and limited access to resources may require targeted interventions, such as community health programs and financial assistance, to improve COPD outcomes. The score should reflect the challenges faced by patients in this context.

Another important element is the availability of community resources. This includes support groups for COPD patients, smoking cessation programs, and pulmonary rehabilitation facilities. The presence of these resources provides patients with a network of support and access to essential services. The accessibility and affordability of these resources significantly impact the overall COPD Score.

Data collection is crucial for a comprehensive analysis. This involves gathering information from various sources, including physician directories, hospital websites, patient surveys, and public health data. Analyzing this data requires expertise in healthcare analytics and a thorough understanding of COPD management. The data must be accurate, up-to-date, and representative of the population within 28213.

The final COPD Score is not just a numerical value; it's a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of COPD care within the ZIP code. This assessment can be used to identify areas for improvement, such as increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support. It can also highlight successful practices that can serve as models for other providers.

The goal is to create a map that helps people see these patterns.