28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.16 percent of the residents in 28651 has some form of health insurance. 43.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.67 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 28651 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,006 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28651. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,460 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 672 health care providers accessible to residents in 28651, Millers Creek, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Millers Creek, NC (ZIP Code 28651)

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within Millers Creek, North Carolina (ZIP code 28651) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians, a critical component in managing COPD, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a COPD score, a relative measure of the resources available to patients in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of COPD management lies in accessible primary care. In Millers Creek, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. While precise figures fluctuate and require ongoing monitoring, data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to estimate this ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, presents a challenge. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions and exacerbating COPD symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, enabling more proactive and preventative care.

Standout practices within the 28651 ZIP code, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive COPD care. This includes practices with dedicated respiratory therapists, pulmonary function testing capabilities, and patient education programs. These practices actively manage COPD through regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. Identifying these practices requires examining patient reviews, consulting with local healthcare providers, and analyzing publicly available data on practice offerings. The presence of certified COPD educators within a practice is another positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for COPD patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or residing in rural areas. Remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management through telemedicine can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring devices, would receive a higher score. The availability of these services can enhance access to care, reduce hospital readmissions, and improve overall quality of life for COPD patients.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health is crucial in COPD management. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize and address these mental health challenges are essential. This includes having mental health professionals on staff or establishing referral networks with mental health providers. Integrated care, where mental health services are readily accessible within the primary care setting, leads to better patient outcomes. Practices that prioritize mental health integration would be highly regarded.

The COPD score for Millers Creek (28651) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. It's influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized COPD services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a favorable environment for COPD patients, with readily available access to comprehensive and coordinated care. A lower score highlights areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health services.

Specific examples of standout practices within the 28651 ZIP code, if they exist, would be those that actively participate in community outreach programs, offering COPD education and support groups. These initiatives foster patient empowerment and improve disease management. They might also collaborate with local hospitals and pharmacies to ensure seamless care coordination. The success of a COPD management program also depends on patient engagement. Practices that actively involve patients in their care plans, providing them with the tools and resources they need to manage their condition, would receive a higher score.

The challenge of assessing primary care availability in Millers Creek extends beyond simply counting physicians. It involves evaluating the quality of care provided, the accessibility of services, and the integration of specialized care. The presence of certified respiratory therapists, pulmonary function testing capabilities, and patient education programs are all critical indicators of a practice's commitment to COPD care. The availability of these resources significantly impacts the quality of life for COPD patients.

Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) plays a crucial role in improving COPD management. EHRs allow for better data tracking, medication management, and communication between healthcare providers. Practices that have fully embraced EHRs and utilize them effectively to manage COPD patients would receive a higher score. This includes using EHRs to track patient symptoms, medication adherence, and lung function tests.

In conclusion, the COPD score for Millers Creek (28651) is a reflection of the overall healthcare ecosystem. It's a composite measure of various factors, including physician availability, specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration. A comprehensive assessment requires ongoing monitoring and data analysis. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Millers Creek and surrounding areas? Explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of physician distribution, healthcare resource availability, and patient demographics.