28371, Parkton, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.34 percent of the residents in 28371 has some form of health insurance. 39.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.94 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 28371 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,286 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28371. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 670 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,362 health care providers accessible to residents in 28371, Parkton, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Parkton, NC (ZIP Code 28371)

Parkton, North Carolina, a small town nestled in Robeson County, presents a unique challenge when considering the availability and quality of care for individuals suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis focuses on the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 28371 and the resources available to manage this debilitating respiratory illness. The goal is to provide a “COPD Score” assessment, encompassing physician-to-patient ratios, practice highlights, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, ultimately offering insights for patients and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of COPD care lies in accessible and qualified primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Parkton is a crucial metric. While precise figures fluctuate, Robeson County, as a whole, historically faces a shortage of physicians, particularly in rural areas like Parkton. This scarcity means that the existing PCPs often shoulder a heavier caseload, potentially impacting appointment availability and the time dedicated to each patient. Furthermore, the concentration of specialists, such as pulmonologists, within the county may be limited, necessitating travel for specialized consultations and treatments. This geographical barrier is a significant factor in the COPD Score assessment.

Within the 28371 ZIP code, the identification of standout primary care practices is essential. Assessing factors such as the number of physicians, years of experience, and patient reviews provides a valuable starting point. Practices that actively participate in COPD-focused continuing medical education (CME) programs and demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based treatment protocols would score favorably. Furthermore, the adoption of patient-centered care models, where patients are actively involved in their treatment plans, is crucial. The presence of certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) within a practice, or readily accessible through partnerships, is a significant advantage, offering specialized support for COPD management.

Telemedicine, or telehealth, is rapidly changing the landscape of healthcare, especially in rural areas. Its potential to improve COPD care in Parkton is substantial. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient education, would receive a higher COPD Score. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, providing timely access to care and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing far from the clinic. The availability of remote pulmonary rehabilitation programs through telemedicine is particularly beneficial.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD care is the impact on mental health. COPD can significantly affect a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the COPD Score. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, would score higher. The presence of support groups and educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of COPD is equally important.

The overall COPD Score for Parkton, NC (28371) would reflect the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare environment with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout primary care practices embracing telemedicine, and readily available mental health support. Conversely, a low score would highlight challenges such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health resources.

Addressing the challenges identified in the COPD Score analysis requires a multi-pronged approach. Recruitment and retention of physicians, especially PCPs and pulmonologists, are paramount. Incentivizing healthcare providers to practice in rural areas, through loan repayment programs or other financial benefits, is a viable strategy. Expanding telemedicine infrastructure, including broadband internet access, is essential to facilitate virtual consultations and remote monitoring. Strengthening partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers is crucial to address the psychological needs of COPD patients.

Furthermore, patient education and empowerment are critical. Providing patients with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their condition effectively can significantly improve their quality of life. This includes education on medication adherence, proper inhaler technique, pulmonary rehabilitation, and self-management strategies. Support groups and peer-to-peer networks can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice.

Finally, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Regularly assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources is essential to ensure that the healthcare system is meeting the needs of COPD patients. The COPD Score should be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Parkton and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, helping patients and providers alike make informed decisions.