28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.00 percent of the residents in 28387 has some form of health insurance. 33.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.89 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 28387 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,650 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28387. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,600 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,405 health care providers accessible to residents in 28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Southern Pines, NC (ZIP Code 28387)

Analyzing the availability and quality of COPD care in Southern Pines, North Carolina (ZIP code 28387) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effectively managing this chronic respiratory disease. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' understanding for residents.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. Southern Pines, while a relatively affluent area, might face challenges. Rural areas often experience a shortage of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists, who are essential for COPD diagnosis, treatment, and management. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially poorer health outcomes for individuals with COPD. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, combined with local health department information, would be necessary to determine the precise ratio within the 28387 ZIP code. This ratio is a critical component of the overall COPD score.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive COPD care often exhibit several key characteristics. These include a multidisciplinary approach involving PCPs, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and potentially nurses specializing in respiratory care. They likely offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFTs) on-site, allowing for timely diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression. Furthermore, these practices often have robust patient education programs, empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively through lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and recognizing early warning signs of exacerbations. They may also participate in clinical trials or research, indicating a commitment to advancing COPD care. Identifying these practices would significantly elevate the COPD score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant benefits for COPD patients, especially those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management support can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the frequency of hospitalizations. The availability of telemedicine services within the 28387 ZIP code, including the types of platforms used, the services offered (e.g., virtual pulmonary rehabilitation), and the ease of access for patients, would significantly impact the COPD score. Assessing the integration of telemedicine into the existing healthcare infrastructure is essential.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a crucial element of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, including therapists and psychiatrists, who are experienced in addressing the psychological challenges associated with chronic respiratory illness, is essential. The COPD score must consider the availability of these resources, including the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, referrals to specialized mental health services, and the availability of support groups.

Analyzing primary care availability in Southern Pines requires understanding the geographical distribution of practices, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, which are often utilized by individuals with COPD. Assessing the accessibility of these practices, considering factors like transportation options and the availability of interpreters for non-English speaking patients, is also crucial. The overall 'COPD Score' is directly influenced by the ease with which individuals can access primary care, the first point of contact for many COPD patients.

The COPD score is not a static measure; it should be periodically updated. Changes in physician staffing, the adoption of new technologies, the availability of mental health services, and shifts in the healthcare landscape all impact the quality of COPD care. Continuous monitoring and analysis are necessary to ensure that residents of Southern Pines have access to the best possible care. This ongoing evaluation allows for identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategies to enhance the overall health outcomes of individuals living with COPD.

This comprehensive analysis considers the interconnectedness of various factors. The COPD score is not merely a numerical value; it represents a holistic assessment of the healthcare ecosystem supporting individuals with COPD. It reflects the availability, accessibility, and quality of care, encompassing medical expertise, technological advancements, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the current state of COPD care in Southern Pines.

The final COPD score will be influenced by the factors discussed above. A high score would indicate a well-resourced environment with a high physician-to-patient ratio, readily available telemedicine services, a strong network of support, and a commitment to patient education and empowerment. A lower score would indicate areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and insufficient mental health resources.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Southern Pines, NC (ZIP code 28387), and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the factors impacting COPD care in your community.