28420, Ash, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28420, Ash, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 28420 has some form of health insurance. 51.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.97 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 28420 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 703 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28420. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 621 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,366 health care providers accessible to residents in 28420, Ash, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28420 & Primary Care in Ash

Analyzing the quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within ZIP code 28420, encompassing the town of Burgaw, North Carolina, and evaluating primary care availability in the adjacent community of Ash, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," assesses key factors influencing patient outcomes, focusing on physician accessibility, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform both patient choices and healthcare system improvements.

The foundation of any COPD Score begins with physician accessibility. In ZIP code 28420, a critical assessment involves calculating the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically for primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can significantly hinder timely diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing management of COPD. This analysis would need to factor in the age distribution of the population, as COPD prevalence increases with age, and the overall health needs of the community. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of physicians within the zip code is important. Are physicians clustered in one area, or are they spread throughout the community, ensuring access for residents regardless of their location?

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of individual practices is crucial. A COPD Score must evaluate factors such as the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for COPD management. Does the practice consistently utilize spirometry for diagnosis? Are patients routinely assessed for smoking cessation and provided with resources to quit? Are they educated about inhaler techniques and medication adherence? Practices that proactively engage in these best practices are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. The availability of specialized COPD care, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs, also significantly impacts the score. These programs, which combine exercise, education, and support, can improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life.

Standout practices within the area would be identified based on their commitment to comprehensive COPD care. This includes not only the medical aspects of treatment but also the provision of supportive services. Practices that excel often have dedicated COPD educators, nurses, or respiratory therapists who work closely with patients. They may also have established referral networks with specialists, such as cardiologists and physical therapists, to address the comorbidities often associated with COPD. Furthermore, the use of patient portals and electronic health records (EHRs) can streamline communication and improve care coordination, contributing to a higher COPD Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the COPD Score. In rural areas like Burgaw and Ash, telemedicine can be a game-changer, expanding access to specialists and follow-up care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and improved outcomes. The level of technological infrastructure, including internet access and patient digital literacy, would also influence the assessment of telemedicine effectiveness.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health screening and counseling services into their COPD care are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. This might involve partnerships with mental health providers, offering on-site counseling, or providing referrals to support groups. The degree to which these resources are accessible and affordable is also an important factor.

Primary care availability in Ash, though geographically separate, is relevant to the overall COPD Score. Many residents of Ash may seek primary care services in Burgaw, and the availability of PCPs in both communities impacts the overall access to care. The analysis must consider the number of PCPs in Ash, their acceptance of new patients, and the average wait times for appointments. The integration of care between Ash and Burgaw, through shared electronic health records or referral networks, can further enhance the score.

To arrive at a comprehensive COPD Score, data from multiple sources is necessary. This includes information from insurance providers, patient surveys, public health agencies, and physician directories. The analysis would also need to consider the socioeconomic factors that impact health outcomes, such as income levels, education, and access to healthy food. The score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape over time.

The COPD Score is not simply a number; it is a reflection of the overall quality of care available to patients with COPD. It provides valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, highlighting areas for improvement. By analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, the score offers a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape. The findings can be used to guide patient choices, inform healthcare policy, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals living with COPD.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28420 and the surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows you to visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant factors, providing a powerful tool for understanding and improving COPD care.