28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.94 percent of the residents in 28365 has some form of health insurance. 40.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.11 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 28365 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,324 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28365. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,044 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,502 health care providers accessible to residents in 28365, Mount Olive, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses the quality of COPD care and primary care availability within ZIP code 28365, encompassing Mount Olive, North Carolina, focusing on key indicators relevant to patient outcomes. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies in the accessibility of qualified primary care physicians. In Mount Olive, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical metric. While precise, real-time ratios fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide a baseline. Analyzing these sources reveals the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the 28365 ZIP code and comparing it to the population size provides a preliminary understanding of access. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the practices themselves are paramount. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? These factors directly impact a patient's ability to receive prompt attention when experiencing a COPD exacerbation. Furthermore, the availability of specialized services within the primary care setting is crucial. Do practices offer spirometry testing, a vital diagnostic tool for COPD? Are they equipped to provide pulmonary rehabilitation services, a cornerstone of effective COPD management? The presence or absence of these resources significantly influences the quality and comprehensiveness of care.

Standout practices within the Mount Olive area would be those that demonstrate a proactive approach to COPD management. This includes practices that actively screen patients for COPD risk factors, such as smoking history and exposure to environmental pollutants. They would also implement evidence-based treatment protocols, including the use of inhaled medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, and smoking cessation counseling. Documentation and adherence to national guidelines, such as those from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), would be a hallmark of these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine adoption presents another crucial element in evaluating COPD care. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer more frequent check-ins, medication management, and educational support, ultimately leading to better disease control and reduced hospitalizations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track oxygen saturation or heart rate, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine programs.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked aspect of COPD care, yet it is vital. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This includes screening for mental health disorders, providing counseling, and offering support groups. The presence of these resources can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life.

Evaluating the availability of these resources requires a multi-faceted approach. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, along with information from local hospitals and clinics, can provide insights into the services offered. Additionally, patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable perspectives on the quality of care and the patient experience. Direct outreach to practices, including phone calls and online surveys, can gather more detailed information about their services and capabilities.

The analysis of primary care availability in Mount Olive and the quality of COPD care requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape. This involves examining physician-to-patient ratios, assessing practice characteristics, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and investigating the integration of mental health resources. By considering these factors, a comprehensive COPD Score can be developed, providing a valuable tool for patients seeking quality care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

The analysis of practices also considers the presence of dedicated respiratory therapists, who play a critical role in patient education, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation. The availability of these professionals can significantly improve patient outcomes. The analysis also considers the use of electronic health records (EHRs), which can facilitate care coordination, improve medication management, and reduce medical errors.

The assessment of mental health integration also considers the availability of social workers, who can provide support to patients and their families. The presence of these resources can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life. The analysis also considers the availability of support groups, which can provide patients with a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation.

The COPD Score is not just a numerical ranking; it represents a commitment to patient well-being. It is a dynamic assessment that can evolve over time, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape and advancements in COPD management. This score, when used in conjunction with other data sources, can help patients make informed decisions about their care and empower them to take an active role in their health.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Olive and visualize the distribution of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points. This interactive tool can help you explore the local healthcare ecosystem and identify potential gaps in care.