28441, Garland, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28441, Garland, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.50 percent of the residents in 28441 has some form of health insurance. 56.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.86 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 28441 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,220 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28441. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 525 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 84 health care providers accessible to residents in 28441, Garland, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28441 and Primary Care in Garland

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, specifically concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within ZIP code 28441 (which encompasses the town of Garland, North Carolina) requires a nuanced approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective COPD care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "COPD Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Garland, a rural community, this ratio is likely to be a significant factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like COPD. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the U.S. Census Bureau would be essential to accurately determine the current ratio. This information would be crucial for understanding the overall capacity of the local healthcare system to serve the population's needs, especially considering the prevalence of COPD, often linked to environmental factors and smoking habits.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key metrics. These include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized COPD training, the availability of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT) and other diagnostic tools, the implementation of evidence-based COPD management protocols, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that actively participate in COPD-related research or clinical trials would also earn high marks. Furthermore, the integration of a multidisciplinary approach, involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and potentially physical therapists, is essential for comprehensive COPD care. The presence of certified respiratory educators (CREs) is particularly valuable, as they play a vital role in patient education and self-management strategies.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the COPD Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Garland. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs (e.g., oxygen saturation levels), and telehealth education programs for COPD patients would be considered highly rated. Telemedicine can facilitate regular check-ins, medication management, and early intervention in case of exacerbations, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital readmissions. The availability of telehealth platforms compatible with various devices and the integration of these platforms into the existing electronic health record (EHR) systems are also important considerations.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health resources is crucial for COPD patients. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), is essential for providing comprehensive care. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, either on-site or through referral networks, would receive a higher COPD Score. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, counseling services, and educational resources focused on managing the psychological impact of COPD is vital.

Analyzing the availability of these resources requires thorough research. This includes reviewing online directories, contacting local healthcare providers, and consulting with community organizations. The assessment should consider the number of providers, their qualifications, their experience in treating COPD patients, and the services they offer. The evaluation should also consider patient reviews and testimonials, which can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

The COPD Score for doctors in ZIP code 28441 is a multifaceted evaluation. It is not a single number but a composite assessment based on various factors. The final score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care in the area. A higher score would indicate a more robust and patient-centered healthcare system, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement. The analysis would reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, providing valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

Improving the COPD Score requires a collaborative effort. This includes increasing the number of primary care physicians and specialists, expanding telemedicine capabilities, integrating mental health services, and promoting patient education and self-management strategies. Community outreach programs and public health initiatives focused on COPD prevention and early detection are also essential.

The assessment would also consider the socioeconomic factors affecting the population of Garland. Factors such as income levels, access to transportation, and insurance coverage can significantly impact access to care. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for ensuring equitable access to COPD care for all residents. The analysis must consider the specific needs of the community and tailor recommendations accordingly.

The overall goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of COPD care in Garland, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement. This information can then be used to develop targeted interventions and improve the health outcomes of COPD patients in the community. The information would provide actionable insights for local healthcare providers and organizations.

The final COPD Score analysis would be a valuable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare providers looking to improve their services, and policymakers aiming to strengthen the local healthcare system. This comprehensive assessment would provide a roadmap for improving the quality of life for individuals living with COPD in Garland, North Carolina.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Garland and explore the data behind this analysis? Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.