28363, Marston, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28363, Marston, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.34 percent of the residents in 28363 has some form of health insurance. 44.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.96 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 28363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 167 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28363. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 207 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,444 health care providers accessible to residents in 28363, Marston, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28363 and Primary Care Availability in Marston, NC**

This analysis evaluates the availability of primary care physicians and related resources in Marston, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 28363 ZIP code, and assessing the potential impact on individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all factors that significantly influence the quality of care for COPD patients.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on consistent access to primary care. In Marston, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio becomes a critical metric. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing current data from the North Carolina Medical Board or similar sources, which can fluctuate. However, we can infer potential challenges based on the area's demographic and geographic characteristics. Rural areas often face shortages, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced continuity of care.

The availability of primary care physicians is not the only factor. The characteristics of existing practices are also important. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have specialized COPD programs or trained staff, such as respiratory therapists or certified COPD educators? A practice that actively manages COPD patients will likely have a more comprehensive approach, including regular pulmonary function tests, medication management, and patient education. This comprehensive approach can lead to improved outcomes and a better quality of life for individuals living with COPD.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions, especially in underserved areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in the 28363 ZIP code is a significant consideration. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of vital signs. This can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be particularly challenging for patients with COPD who may experience shortness of breath or mobility issues. The presence of telemedicine options can also improve access to specialists, such as pulmonologists, who may not be readily available in the local area.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of COPD management, but it is crucial. COPD can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the primary care setting or easily accessible through referrals, is a key indicator of comprehensive care. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and integrate it into their treatment plans are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their COPD patients.

Standout practices in the area, if any, would be those that demonstrate a proactive approach to COPD management. This could include practices that have invested in specialized equipment, such as spirometers for pulmonary function testing, or those that have implemented patient education programs. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to COPD may also be considered to have a higher standard of care. Identifying these practices requires thorough research, including online reviews, patient testimonials, and direct contact with local healthcare providers.

Assessing the overall COPD score for the area involves synthesizing all these factors. It’s a complex equation, but a higher score would indicate greater access to primary care, a higher physician-to-patient ratio, more practices with COPD-specific programs, greater adoption of telemedicine, and better access to mental health resources. A lower score would indicate the opposite, suggesting significant challenges for COPD patients in accessing and receiving adequate care.

To improve the COPD score in the 28363 ZIP code, several strategies could be implemented. These include recruiting more primary care physicians to the area, encouraging existing practices to adopt telemedicine, and increasing the availability of mental health services. Community outreach programs that educate the public about COPD and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment are also essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is crucial for creating a supportive environment for COPD patients.

The availability of primary care in Marston and the surrounding area is subject to change. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, and new practices may open, while existing ones may adjust their services. Regular updates to this analysis are therefore necessary to ensure its accuracy and relevance. The information provided here should be considered as a starting point for further investigation.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 28363 ZIP code, including the location of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographical data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.