28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.36 percent of the residents in 28430 has some form of health insurance. 39.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.72 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 28430 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 425 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28430. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 407 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,238 health care providers accessible to residents in 28430, Cerro Gordo, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Cerro Gordo, NC (ZIP Code 28430)

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and associated resources within Cerro Gordo, North Carolina (ZIP code 28430), is crucial for understanding the community's ability to manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis, framed as a "COPD Score," evaluates key factors impacting COPD patient care, including physician availability, resource accessibility, and innovative care models. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and identify areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on access to primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio within Cerro Gordo is a critical indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are difficult to obtain without direct access to local healthcare provider databases, publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Census Bureau can offer valuable insights. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care providers, presents a significant challenge. Residents may face longer wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative care, and delayed diagnoses, all of which can exacerbate COPD symptoms and increase the risk of hospitalizations.

Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. However, the mere presence of physicians doesn't guarantee quality care. The experience and specialization of these physicians are equally important. Are they board-certified in internal medicine or family medicine? Do they have a specific interest or training in pulmonology or respiratory care? These factors directly influence the level of expertise available to COPD patients.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices often serve as models for best practices in COPD care. They may have implemented patient-centered care models, actively engaged in patient education, and adopted innovative technologies. Key indicators of a high-performing practice include a dedicated respiratory therapist on staff, readily available pulmonary function testing, comprehensive patient education programs, and a proactive approach to medication management and adherence. Further investigation would involve reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice ratings, and assessing the availability of chronic disease management programs.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital component of the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for expanding access to care, especially in rural areas like Cerro Gordo. It allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and symptom monitoring. This can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving patients time and travel expenses, while also minimizing their exposure to potential infections. The degree of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in 28430 should be assessed, examining the types of telehealth services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care plan.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial element of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is therefore essential. The COPD Score should evaluate the availability of mental health services within Cerro Gordo, including the presence of licensed mental health providers, the availability of counseling services, and the integration of mental health support into the primary care setting. Collaborative care models, where primary care physicians and mental health professionals work together to provide integrated care, are particularly beneficial.

Further, the availability of support groups and educational resources for COPD patients should be considered. These resources provide patients with valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community. The presence of local support groups, educational workshops, and readily accessible online resources contributes positively to the COPD Score.

The overall COPD Score for Cerro Gordo (28430) would be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses across all the above-mentioned factors. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for COPD patients, with greater access to quality care, resources, and support. A lower score suggests areas needing improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, increasing telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health services.

The analysis of the Cerro Gordo area's COPD care landscape reveals a complex picture. While the exact score requires in-depth data collection, the framework highlights the critical factors influencing patient outcomes. Addressing physician availability, promoting telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and fostering patient education are all essential steps towards improving COPD care within the community.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cerro Gordo and visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize data, identify patterns, and analyze healthcare access within specific geographic areas.