28432, Clarendon, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.39 percent of the residents in 28432 has some form of health insurance. 45.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.58 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 28432 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 323 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28432. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 284 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,231 health care providers accessible to residents in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28432 and Primary Care Availability in Clarendon

This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP code 28432, focusing on their ability to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It also examines the availability of primary care resources in Clarendon, considering factors crucial for COPD patient care. The COPD Score, for the purposes of this analysis, is a composite metric reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of COPD-related care. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all vital for effective COPD management.

ZIP code 28432, in this context, represents a specific geographic area where a significant portion of the population may be at risk for COPD. Clarendon, as a broader geographic designation, helps to understand the regional context of primary care access. The analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement regarding COPD care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Conversely, a lower ratio generally suggests greater accessibility. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within 28432 and comparing it to regional and national averages is a crucial first step. The analysis would need to consider the number of practicing PCPs within the zip code, the total population of 28432, and the prevalence of COPD within that population to arrive at a meaningful ratio. This ratio, in turn, informs the COPD Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves significantly impact the COPD Score. Practices that are well-equipped to manage COPD typically demonstrate certain features. These include the availability of spirometry testing on-site, a crucial diagnostic tool for COPD. Practices with dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses trained in COPD management and patient education score higher. The implementation of evidence-based guidelines for COPD treatment, such as those from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), also contributes positively to the score. Electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate the tracking of COPD patients, medication adherence, and exacerbation history are another critical factor.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management support via telehealth technologies would score higher. The ability to conduct virtual follow-up appointments, provide education on self-management techniques, and quickly address patient concerns remotely can significantly enhance the quality of COPD care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the management of COPD, but they are critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health specialists, receive a higher COPD Score. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health professionals ensures that patients receive comprehensive care addressing both their physical and psychological needs. Screening for depression and anxiety, providing counseling services, and offering support groups are all valuable components of a comprehensive COPD care plan.

Primary care availability in Clarendon, the broader region, also influences the COPD Score. Even if individual practices within 28432 are performing well, limited access to primary care across the larger area can negatively affect patient outcomes. Factors such as the geographic distribution of PCPs, the availability of transportation to medical appointments, and the affordability of healthcare services all contribute to overall access. The presence of community health centers, free clinics, and other resources that provide care to underserved populations is particularly important.

The analysis would also consider the practices' involvement in community outreach and education programs. Practices that actively participate in COPD awareness campaigns, offer smoking cessation programs, and provide educational materials to patients and their families demonstrate a commitment to proactive COPD management. These activities can help to prevent COPD, improve early diagnosis, and empower patients to manage their condition effectively.

Standout practices within 28432 would be those that excel in multiple areas. These practices might have low physician-to-patient ratios, utilize advanced telemedicine technologies, offer comprehensive mental health services, and actively participate in community outreach. They would likely have a well-trained staff, implement evidence-based guidelines, and use EHR systems effectively. Identifying these standout practices can provide valuable insights and serve as models for other practices to emulate.

The COPD Score, as a composite metric, provides a holistic view of the healthcare landscape. It is not simply a measure of individual physician performance, but a reflection of the entire system's ability to provide quality COPD care. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and regional primary care availability, the COPD Score offers a more comprehensive and informative assessment. This allows for a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and helps to identify areas for improvement.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to improve the quality of life for COPD patients. By providing a detailed assessment of the healthcare landscape, we can identify areas where resources need to be allocated, where improvements can be made, and where best practices can be shared. This, in turn, will lead to better patient outcomes and a healthier community.

Would you like to visualize the primary care landscape in 28432 and the surrounding areas? Explore the geographic distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to care using interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the factors impacting COPD care.