28305, Fayetteville, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28305, Fayetteville, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.00 percent of the residents in 28305 has some form of health insurance. 37.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.81 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 28305 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,161 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28305. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,342 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,612 health care providers accessible to residents in 28305, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Fayetteville, NC (ZIP Code 28305)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients in Fayetteville, North Carolina, specifically within the 28305 ZIP code. It focuses on primary care physician (PCP) availability, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and overall resources relevant to managing COPD. The goal is to offer insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access Challenges**

Access to primary care physicians is a critical factor in COPD management. Regular check-ups, medication management, and patient education are essential for controlling symptoms and preventing exacerbations. Within the 28305 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio presents a significant challenge. The area experiences a shortage of PCPs, which translates to longer wait times for appointments and increased difficulty in establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care provider. This scarcity is exacerbated by the high prevalence of COPD in the region, potentially stemming from factors like smoking history and environmental exposures.

The concentration of healthcare facilities and specialists in the broader Fayetteville area offers some respite, but transportation limitations and the sheer volume of patients seeking care can still hinder access. Patients with COPD often face mobility issues, making travel to distant clinics or hospitals a significant burden. The lack of readily accessible primary care in the immediate vicinity of 28305 necessitates innovative solutions to improve patient access.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

While challenges exist, several practices in and around the 28305 ZIP code demonstrate commendable efforts in COPD care. These practices often emphasize patient education, offering resources on disease management, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. They may have dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses who specialize in COPD, providing personalized care and support.

These standout practices frequently leverage technology to enhance patient care. Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate seamless communication between providers, enabling better coordination of care. They may also utilize patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and schedule appointments online. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines and protocols for COPD management is another hallmark of these practices, ensuring that patients receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine holds immense potential for improving COPD care in areas with limited access to healthcare. In the 28305 ZIP code, telemedicine adoption is increasing, albeit at a moderate pace. This technology allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and offering greater flexibility.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for COPD patients, enabling virtual monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and regular check-ins. It can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be readily available in the local area. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires robust internet connectivity, patient education on using the technology, and clear protocols for handling emergencies. The digital divide, where some patients lack access to the necessary technology or have limited digital literacy, remains a barrier to widespread adoption.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance**

COPD is a chronic illness that can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and social isolation are common among COPD patients. Recognizing this, the availability of mental health resources is crucial for comprehensive COPD care.

Within the 28305 ZIP code, the availability of mental health services is moderate. Some primary care practices integrate behavioral health specialists into their teams, providing on-site counseling and support. Community mental health centers and private practices also offer services. However, the demand for mental health services often exceeds the supply, leading to long wait times and limited access.

Integrating mental health support into COPD care involves screening patients for mental health issues, providing access to counseling and therapy, and educating patients about coping mechanisms. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is essential for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.

**Overall COPD Score and Recommendations**

Based on the factors discussed above, the overall COPD score for the 28305 ZIP code is moderate. While there are commendable efforts by some practices and increasing telemedicine adoption, challenges remain in physician-to-patient ratios, mental health resource availability, and digital access.

To improve COPD care in the area, several recommendations are crucial. Increasing the number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists is essential. Promoting telemedicine adoption, especially for remote monitoring and follow-up appointments, is vital. Expanding access to mental health services, including integrated behavioral health within primary care practices, is also critical. Investing in patient education programs, focusing on self-management techniques and lifestyle modifications, can empower patients to take control of their health. Addressing the digital divide by providing access to technology and digital literacy training is also necessary.

**Visualizing the Data with CartoChrome Maps**

For a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fayetteville, NC, and the 28305 ZIP code, we recommend exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize physician density, healthcare facility locations, and socioeconomic data relevant to COPD patients. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in COPD care.