28624, Ferguson, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.67 percent of the residents in 28624 has some form of health insurance. 34.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.45 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 28624 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 247 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28624. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 28624, Ferguson, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Ferguson, NC (ZIP Code 28624)**

Analyzing the availability of quality COPD care in Ferguson, North Carolina (ZIP code 28624) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive COPD management. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Ferguson, specifically concerning primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists, is a foundational metric. Data from the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board is essential for calculating this. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes for individuals with chronic conditions like COPD. This data needs to be updated frequently, as physician availability can fluctuate. Further, the ratio must be considered alongside the age distribution of the population, as older populations tend to have a higher prevalence of COPD.

Identifying standout practices involves examining several factors. Reputation within the community, patient reviews, and the availability of specialized services are all important. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management will likely have a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, including respiratory therapists, nurses specializing in pulmonary care, and access to advanced diagnostic tools like pulmonary function testing (PFT). Moreover, practices that actively participate in COPD-focused research or clinical trials are often at the forefront of innovative treatments and management strategies.

Telemedicine has become increasingly relevant in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions. In the context of COPD, telemedicine offers the potential for remote monitoring of patients, virtual consultations, and medication management. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care providers and pulmonologists in Ferguson is a key indicator of the healthcare system's adaptability and its ability to provide accessible care. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce hospital readmissions, and enhance overall patient outcomes. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine programs.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the management of chronic respiratory illnesses like COPD. The psychological impact of COPD, including anxiety, depression, and social isolation, can significantly affect a patient's quality of life and their ability to manage their condition effectively. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in chronic illness management is therefore essential. The availability of these resources within Ferguson, either through the local healthcare system or through partnerships with external providers, is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care.

Assessing the COPD score for Ferguson necessitates a holistic view. It requires an understanding of the interconnectedness of these factors. A high physician-to-patient ratio alone does not guarantee excellent care. The quality of care, the adoption of technology, and the availability of mental health support all play a vital role. A practice with a lower physician-to-patient ratio but with a robust telemedicine program and strong mental health support could potentially provide superior care compared to a practice with a higher ratio but lacking these resources.

The availability of specialist care, such as pulmonologists, is another crucial factor. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for COPD patients, access to specialized expertise is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The presence of pulmonologists in or near Ferguson, and their willingness to accept new patients, significantly impacts the overall COPD score.

Data on hospital readmission rates for COPD patients in the area provides another valuable metric. High readmission rates may indicate inadequate disease management, poor patient education, or insufficient access to resources. Analyzing these rates and comparing them to regional or national averages provides a benchmark for assessing the effectiveness of COPD care in Ferguson.

Patient education and self-management support are critical aspects of COPD care. Practices that provide educational materials, offer support groups, and encourage patient participation in their care plans are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The availability of these resources, and the extent to which they are utilized by patients, is an important factor in the overall COPD score.

The level of integration and coordination between different healthcare providers is another key consideration. Effective COPD management often requires collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists. Practices that have established referral pathways and communication protocols are better equipped to provide coordinated care.

The local healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of emergency services and access to specialized equipment, also influences the COPD score. The ability to quickly access emergency care in the event of a COPD exacerbation is crucial. The availability of specialized equipment, such as ventilators and oxygen therapy, is also essential for managing severe cases.

In conclusion, assessing the COPD score for Ferguson, NC, requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure all play a crucial role in determining the quality of care available to individuals with COPD. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the current state of COPD care in Ferguson.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Ferguson, including the location of practices, physician availability, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome.