28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.88 percent of the residents in 28351 has some form of health insurance. 49.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.51 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 28351 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,120 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28351. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 768 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,471 health care providers accessible to residents in 28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina.

The assessment of COPD care within the 28351 ZIP code, encompassing Laurel Hill, North Carolina, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the key indicators of care quality, focusing on primary care physician availability, the presence of specialized pulmonary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the COPD care landscape in Laurel Hill, allowing for informed decisions and improvements.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in rural areas like Laurel Hill often reveals a shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity directly impacts access to care for COPD patients, who require regular check-ups, medication management, and potential referrals to specialists. The limited number of physicians can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. The impact is heightened for those with COPD, a chronic condition demanding proactive and consistent medical attention.

The availability of primary care physicians is not the only factor. The presence of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is also crucial. Ideally, a well-coordinated healthcare system would allow primary care physicians to easily refer patients to pulmonologists for advanced diagnostics, specialized treatments, and ongoing disease management. The absence of local pulmonologists would necessitate travel to larger cities, adding a significant burden on patients, particularly those with breathing difficulties. This travel time and associated costs can deter patients from seeking the care they need, leading to poorer health outcomes.

Beyond physician availability, the adoption of telemedicine plays a significant role in improving COPD care. Telemedicine allows physicians to remotely monitor patients' conditions, adjust medications, and provide consultations without requiring in-person visits. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be physically located in Laurel Hill. The extent of telemedicine integration within the local healthcare system, including the availability of necessary equipment and the training of both physicians and patients, is a key indicator of care quality.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic respiratory illnesses. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for managing the psychological challenges associated with COPD. The availability of mental health services, including the ability to access these services in person or via telehealth, is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. The integration of mental health support into the overall treatment plan can improve patient adherence to medication regimens and lifestyle modifications, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within the 28351 ZIP code is essential. While specific practices may not be named in this analysis, the characteristics of high-performing practices should be highlighted. These practices typically demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive disease management, and the use of evidence-based guidelines. They also often have well-coordinated care teams, including nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine and integrate mental health services into their care models are likely to provide superior care for COPD patients.

Evaluating the overall quality of COPD care in Laurel Hill requires a comprehensive understanding of the resources available. This includes not only the number of physicians and specialists but also the level of telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health services, and the presence of well-coordinated care teams. The goal is to identify areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. Addressing the challenges associated with physician shortages, travel distances, and the integration of mental health services is crucial for improving the health outcomes of COPD patients in this rural community.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD care landscape in Laurel Hill, NC (ZIP Code 28351), highlights the need for a multifaceted approach. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources are all critical factors. Identifying standout practices and addressing the challenges related to rural healthcare delivery are essential for improving the health outcomes of COPD patients. To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Laurel Hill and beyond, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare resource distribution, and other relevant data points, aiding in informed decision-making and community health planning.