28463, Tabor City, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28463, Tabor City, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.01 percent of the residents in 28463 has some form of health insurance. 43.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.21 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 28463 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,266 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28463. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,499 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 746 health care providers accessible to residents in 28463, Tabor City, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Tabor City, NC (ZIP Code 28463)

Analyzing the availability and quality of COPD care within Tabor City, North Carolina (ZIP code 28463) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis examines primary care physician availability, assesses the potential for effective COPD management, and explores the integration of modern healthcare solutions. The goal is to provide a comprehensive COPD score, offering insights for both patients and healthcare providers in the region.

The foundation of COPD care rests upon accessible primary care. In Tabor City, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and less frequent monitoring of COPD symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio facilitates more proactive care. Researching the current ratio for primary care physicians within the 28463 ZIP code is the first step. This data, coupled with information on the average patient load for each physician, will provide a clearer picture of access.

Beyond simple physician numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Evaluating practices requires looking at several factors. Are practices accepting new patients? What are their office hours and availability for same-day appointments? Do they have experience treating COPD patients? Analyzing patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care. Furthermore, assessing the practices' commitment to preventative care, such as regular checkups and flu vaccinations, is critical for managing COPD effectively.

Standout practices within the region often differentiate themselves through their comprehensive approach. This includes not only diagnosing and treating COPD but also providing patient education, offering pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and coordinating care with specialists, such as pulmonologists. These practices may also have dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses who specialize in COPD management. Identifying these exemplary practices is vital for patients seeking the highest level of care.

Telemedicine presents a transformative opportunity for COPD management in rural areas like Tabor City. Remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management through telehealth can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care practices in the 28463 ZIP code is crucial. Practices that embrace telehealth can provide more frequent and convenient check-ups, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. This also reduces the burden on the healthcare system by reducing the need for in-person visits for routine monitoring.

Mental health support is a vital component of COPD care, often overlooked. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the community is crucial. Do primary care practices screen patients for mental health issues? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Integrating mental health services into COPD care can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall well-being.

Medication management plays a crucial role in COPD control. Assessing the availability of pharmacies within the 28463 ZIP code, and their ability to dispense necessary medications, is essential. Are there any challenges with medication access, such as cost or insurance coverage? Furthermore, evaluating the practices' ability to educate patients about their medications, including proper inhaler technique and potential side effects, is a key indicator of quality care. The availability of medication assistance programs for low-income patients is also a consideration.

Specialist care is a critical element of COPD management, especially for patients with complex cases. Assessing the proximity and availability of pulmonologists and respiratory specialists is important. Do patients have easy access to these specialists for consultations and specialized treatments? The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated pulmonary department and access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as pulmonary function tests and CT scans, is another factor to consider.

The overall COPD score for Tabor City will be determined by a composite of these factors. A high score indicates readily accessible primary care, a commitment to preventative measures, the adoption of telehealth, the integration of mental health services, and access to specialist care. A low score suggests potential challenges, such as limited access to primary care, lack of telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources.

Ultimately, improving COPD care in Tabor City requires a collaborative effort. Healthcare providers must work together to enhance access to care, embrace innovative technologies, and address the multifaceted needs of COPD patients. Patients, too, must be proactive in managing their health, seeking regular medical attention, and adhering to their treatment plans.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in the Tabor City area, including physician locations, specialist availability, and pharmacy locations, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This powerful tool can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape, empowering both patients and providers to make informed decisions.