28366, Newton Grove, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28366, Newton Grove, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.85 percent of the residents in 28366 has some form of health insurance. 42.75 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 28366 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,452 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28366. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 973 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 905 health care providers accessible to residents in 28366, Newton Grove, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28366 and Primary Care Availability in Newton Grove

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within a specific geographic area, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 28366, encompassing Newton Grove, North Carolina, evaluating the landscape of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage COPD patients, and the overall accessibility of resources. The goal is to generate a "COPD Score" assessment, considering various factors that impact patient care.

One critical aspect is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within 28366 is the initial step. Publicly available databases, such as the North Carolina Medical Board, can provide this information. However, simply counting the number of doctors is insufficient. We must consider the patient population within the ZIP code. Census data will provide the population figures. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per doctor, can strain resources and potentially limit the time and attention each patient receives, impacting COPD management. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided is paramount. Identifying standout practices within 28366 requires examining several indicators. Patient reviews, accessible through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer insights into patient experiences, including satisfaction with physician communication, wait times, and overall care quality. These reviews can highlight practices that consistently receive positive feedback. Furthermore, investigating the practices' adherence to COPD treatment guidelines is crucial. Do they follow the most recent GOLD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) guidelines? This can be assessed by examining their internal protocols, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFT) within the practice.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor in the COPD score. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources are better equipped to manage COPD patients. The availability of these services can be evaluated by contacting the practices directly or by reviewing their websites. The presence of secure patient portals, allowing for easy communication with physicians and access to medical records, also contributes positively to the score.

The management of COPD often involves addressing co-morbidities, including mental health issues. COPD patients are at a higher risk of experiencing depression and anxiety. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is essential. Does the practice have a psychiatrist or psychologist on staff or readily available for referrals? Do they screen patients for mental health conditions? Practices that proactively address mental health concerns demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care, improving the overall COPD score.

Furthermore, assessing the availability of respiratory therapists (RTs) and pulmonary rehabilitation programs within or near 28366 is vital. RTs play a crucial role in educating patients about their condition, administering breathing treatments, and providing support. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs offer supervised exercise, education, and support groups, improving lung function and quality of life. The presence of these resources significantly enhances the COPD score.

Another important consideration is the availability of specialized COPD clinics or centers. While not always present in smaller communities, the existence of such facilities, even within a reasonable driving distance, can improve the COPD score. These centers often provide comprehensive care, including specialized diagnostic testing, advanced treatment options, and access to clinical trials.

The use of EHR systems and data analytics is also important. Practices utilizing sophisticated EHR systems can better track patient outcomes, monitor medication adherence, and identify patients at high risk of exacerbations. The ability to analyze data and implement evidence-based interventions contributes positively to the COPD score.

Analyzing the accessibility of prescription medications is also essential. Are there pharmacies within 28366 or nearby that stock the necessary medications for COPD treatment? The ease with which patients can obtain their prescriptions, including the availability of generic alternatives, impacts the overall COPD score.

In conclusion, the COPD score for doctors in ZIP code 28366 and the primary care availability in Newton Grove would be determined by synthesizing all the factors mentioned above. The score would not be a single number but a comprehensive assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape in relation to COPD management. A high score would indicate excellent access to care, high-quality services, and a proactive approach to patient management. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as a shortage of PCPs, limited telemedicine adoption, or a lack of mental health resources.

To visualize and further analyze this data, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow for the visualization of geographic data, providing a clear and interactive representation of healthcare resources within 28366 and surrounding areas. They can map physician locations, practice locations, pharmacy locations, and the locations of specialized COPD clinics. This visual representation can reveal patterns and disparities in healthcare access, informing decisions about resource allocation and healthcare improvements. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Newton Grove and improve outcomes for COPD patients.