28521, Chinquapin, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28521, Chinquapin, North Carolina is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.47 percent of the residents in 28521 has some form of health insurance. 45.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.95 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 28521 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 286 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28521. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 371 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 418 health care providers accessible to residents in 28521, Chinquapin, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28521 and Primary Care Availability in Chinquapin

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, specifically concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within ZIP Code 28521 (which includes Chinquapin, North Carolina) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will attempt to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, factoring in physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in comprehensive COPD care.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially, less effective management of chronic conditions like COPD. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the US Census Bureau, alongside data from professional organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA), would need to be cross-referenced to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 28521. However, given the rural nature of the area and the limited population density of Chinquapin, it is reasonable to anticipate a lower ratio compared to more urban centers. This scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs) can significantly impact COPD patients who require regular check-ups, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

Identifying "standout practices" necessitates evaluating several criteria. This includes the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic tools like spirometry (essential for COPD diagnosis and monitoring), and the presence of a dedicated respiratory therapy team. Practices that actively participate in COPD-specific clinical trials or adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) would score higher. Furthermore, patient reviews and satisfaction ratings, available through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided. The presence of a practice specifically focused on pulmonary care within or near 28521 would be a significant advantage, providing specialized expertise and potentially reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs (e.g., oxygen saturation), and online patient education resources would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can bridge the gap created by physician shortages, allowing patients to receive timely care and support without the burden of travel. For COPD patients, telemedicine can facilitate medication adjustments, symptom management, and adherence to pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The ability to connect with specialists remotely, such as pulmonologists, is especially valuable when specialized expertise is limited locally.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical component of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would be considered more comprehensive. Access to counseling, support groups, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help patients manage the psychological challenges associated with COPD, improving their overall quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The presence of mental health resources is especially important for patients living in rural areas, where access to mental health care can be further limited.

The "COPD Score" for doctors in 28521 would ultimately be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio would likely carry a significant weight, given its fundamental impact on access. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources would contribute to a higher overall score, indicating a more robust and patient-centered approach to COPD management.

In Chinquapin, specifically, the primary care availability is intrinsically linked to the overall COPD score. The scarcity of PCPs, as anticipated, could be a significant limiting factor. The ability of patients to secure timely appointments with their PCP, who can coordinate care and provide initial management, is essential. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, is also a crucial consideration. If patients must travel long distances to see a pulmonologist, their access to specialized care is compromised. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with respiratory therapy services would be a significant asset, offering on-site pulmonary rehabilitation and support.

Analyzing the specific practices within or near Chinquapin is crucial. This includes evaluating the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of necessary diagnostic tools, and the practice's commitment to evidence-based COPD management. The adoption of telemedicine would be particularly beneficial in this area, as it could help overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care. The integration of mental health resources is also vital, given the psychological impact of COPD.

The overall COPD score for Chinquapin would reflect the interplay of these factors. The score would be lower if there is a shortage of PCPs, a lack of specialized care, and limited access to telemedicine and mental health resources. Conversely, the score would be higher if the area has sufficient primary care, access to specialists, and a commitment to comprehensive COPD management.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28521 and Chinquapin, including specific practice locations, physician profiles, and service offerings, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can visually represent the distribution of healthcare providers, allowing for a more granular analysis of access to care and the availability of essential services.