28326, Cameron, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.09 percent of the residents in 28326 has some form of health insurance. 23.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.70 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 28326 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,726 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28326. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,835 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,852 health care providers accessible to residents in 28326, Cameron, North Carolina.

The analysis of COPD care within ZIP Code 28326, encompassing the town of Cameron, North Carolina, demands a multifaceted approach, evaluating not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care, access to specialized resources, and the integration of innovative technologies. This report aims to provide a comprehensive COPD Score assessment, considering the specific nuances of this rural community.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests upon readily accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can significantly hinder access to care, especially for a chronic condition like COPD, which necessitates regular check-ups and medication management. Data on physician distribution within 28326 is crucial. Are there enough primary care physicians to adequately serve the population, considering the prevalence of COPD, which often increases with age and smoking history? Public health data and local surveys are essential to determine if the current physician count meets the needs of the community.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Practices should be assessed based on their adherence to COPD treatment guidelines, including spirometry testing, smoking cessation counseling, and medication management. Are local practices utilizing evidence-based practices? Do they have dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses trained in COPD care? Information on patient satisfaction, as measured through surveys and reviews, provides valuable insights into the patient experience. This includes evaluating wait times, appointment availability, and the overall communication between physicians and patients.

Identifying standout practices within the 28326 ZIP Code is crucial. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in COPD management. They may have implemented innovative programs, such as pulmonary rehabilitation, which can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients. The presence of these specialized programs, and the ease of access to them, should be a key factor in the COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. For a rural community like Cameron, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations. Does the area have access to telemedicine platforms for COPD management? Are local physicians utilizing telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education? The integration of remote monitoring devices, which allow patients to track their symptoms and share data with their physicians, should also be assessed.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD care, but they are crucial. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score must consider the availability of mental health services within the community. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists available to support COPD patients? Do primary care practices have integrated mental health services or referral pathways? Support groups and educational programs that address both the physical and psychological aspects of COPD are also important.

The availability of pulmonary specialists is another key consideration. While primary care physicians manage the majority of COPD cases, patients with severe or complex conditions often require specialized care. Are there pulmonologists within a reasonable distance of Cameron? The ease of access to these specialists, including appointment availability and referral processes, impacts the overall COPD Score.

Pharmacy access is another important aspect. The ability to quickly and easily obtain necessary medications is vital for COPD management. Are there pharmacies within a reasonable distance of Cameron? Do these pharmacies have the necessary medications in stock, including inhalers and oxygen equipment? Are there programs in place to help patients afford their medications?

The COPD Score should also consider the community's overall health infrastructure. This includes the availability of emergency services, such as ambulances and hospitals, and the presence of community health centers that offer a range of services, including COPD education and support. Are there resources available to help patients manage their COPD effectively in their homes, such as home health care services and respiratory therapists?

The COPD Score should not only reflect the current state of care but also consider future trends. The prevalence of COPD is expected to increase in the coming years, due to an aging population and continued exposure to risk factors such as smoking and air pollution. The community needs to be prepared for this increase, with plans to expand access to care, improve the quality of services, and integrate innovative technologies.

The overall COPD Score should reflect the community's ability to provide comprehensive and coordinated care for COPD patients. This includes access to primary care, specialized services, mental health resources, and innovative technologies. The score should also consider the community's commitment to patient education, support, and advocacy. The goal is to improve the quality of life for COPD patients and reduce the burden of this chronic disease.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28326, including physician locations, patient demographics, and resource distribution, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. This powerful tool allows for the visualization of healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care in Cameron and the surrounding areas.