28339, Erwin, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28339, Erwin, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.65 percent of the residents in 28339 has some form of health insurance. 47.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.82 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 28339 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,629 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28339. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,360 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 843 health care providers accessible to residents in 28339, Erwin, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Erwin, NC (ZIP Code 28339)

This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment for physicians practicing within the 28339 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability and related factors. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and evaluates the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape as it pertains to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management.

Erwin, North Carolina, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its rural setting and demographic profile require careful consideration when evaluating COPD care. The prevalence of COPD is often higher in areas with significant exposure to environmental risk factors, such as smoking and occupational hazards. Therefore, access to quality primary care, specialized respiratory services, and mental health support are crucial for effective COPD management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Erwin is a critical indicator of access to care. Data analysis is required to determine the precise ratio within the 28339 ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, can significantly impact patient outcomes. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative care, and difficulty in managing chronic conditions like COPD. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability and potentially better access to timely medical interventions. This ratio must be considered alongside the age and health profile of the population, as an older and sicker population will require more medical resources.

Identifying standout primary care practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in managing chronic conditions. Key indicators of a high-performing practice include a proactive approach to COPD screening, early diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment plans. The availability of spirometry testing within the practice is a significant advantage. Practices that actively engage in patient education, provide smoking cessation programs, and offer ongoing support for COPD management are considered exemplary. Furthermore, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates efficient communication between healthcare providers and improves care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in delivering healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access care remotely. For COPD patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within the 28339 ZIP code is crucial for understanding the accessibility of care.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices is highly beneficial. Assessing the presence of these resources within the Erwin healthcare system is essential for providing holistic care to COPD patients.

Furthermore, the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is a significant factor in COPD management. These programs provide patients with education, exercise training, and support to improve their lung function and quality of life. The presence of such programs in or near the 28339 ZIP code is a positive indicator of the healthcare system's commitment to COPD care.

Another factor to consider is the availability of respiratory therapists. These healthcare professionals play a vital role in managing COPD patients, providing respiratory treatments, and educating patients on proper breathing techniques. The presence of respiratory therapists in primary care practices or specialized clinics enhances the quality of care.

The analysis must also consider the level of insurance coverage within the population. Access to affordable healthcare is a critical determinant of patient outcomes. The prevalence of Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans within the 28339 ZIP code must be assessed to understand the financial barriers to care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive COPD Score analysis for physicians in ZIP code 28339 requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement. The goal is to ensure that COPD patients in Erwin have access to the best possible care, leading to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life. The data needed for this analysis includes information about the number of physicians, the services offered by each practice, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, the availability of mental health resources, and the insurance coverage of the population.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Erwin, NC, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors discussed in this analysis, explore the power of spatial data with CartoChrome maps.