28654, Moravian Falls, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28654, Moravian Falls, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.56 percent of the residents in 28654 has some form of health insurance. 46.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.19 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 28654 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 276 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28654. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,215 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 753 health care providers accessible to residents in 28654, Moravian Falls, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Moravian Falls, NC (ZIP Code 28654)

This analysis provides a COPD score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within ZIP code 28654 (Moravian Falls, NC), focusing on factors crucial for managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which significantly impact the quality of care for COPD patients. The goal is to offer a nuanced perspective on the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

Moravian Falls, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique healthcare environment. The rural setting often translates to challenges in accessing specialized care and a potential for higher rates of COPD due to factors like environmental exposures and smoking prevalence. Therefore, the availability and quality of primary care are paramount.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Accessibility:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational element of healthcare access. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time a physician can dedicate to each patient. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are often difficult to ascertain publicly, an assessment of the general healthcare landscape in the region is possible. We must consider the broader county and regional data to extrapolate potential trends within 28654. This includes examining the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, the population size, and the presence of any large healthcare systems or clinics.

Furthermore, accessibility extends beyond the raw number of physicians. Factors such as appointment wait times, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of evening or weekend hours all contribute to the ease with which patients can access care. Practices with longer wait times or limited appointment availability may negatively impact COPD patients, who often require frequent check-ups and timely interventions.

**Practice Characteristics and COPD Management:**

The specific practices and their approach to COPD management are critical. This includes the use of evidence-based guidelines, the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFT), and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that actively follow COPD guidelines, such as those provided by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), are more likely to provide optimal care.

The presence of on-site PFT capabilities is a significant advantage. This allows for prompt diagnosis, monitoring of disease progression, and assessment of treatment effectiveness. Practices that lack this capacity may need to refer patients to specialists, potentially delaying care and adding to patient inconvenience.

Patient education is another vital component. COPD patients need comprehensive information about their condition, medications, inhaler techniques, and lifestyle modifications. Practices that offer structured education programs, either in-person or through educational materials, empower patients to actively manage their disease.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. This involves reviewing online reviews, patient testimonials, and potentially contacting practices directly to gather information. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD care often have dedicated staff trained in respiratory care, offer comprehensive patient education, and actively participate in quality improvement initiatives.

These practices may also collaborate with local pulmonologists or respiratory therapists to provide coordinated care. Such collaborations can improve patient outcomes by ensuring seamless communication and access to specialized expertise.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve COPD care, particularly in rural areas. It enables patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent check-ups. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations.

The adoption of telemedicine varies among practices. Some may offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Others may use remote monitoring devices to track patient symptoms and vital signs. Practices that embrace telemedicine are often better equipped to provide timely and accessible care.

**Mental Health Resources:**

COPD can have a significant impact on mental health. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive COPD care.

Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are better positioned to address the psychological needs of their patients. This may involve providing on-site counseling, collaborating with mental health professionals, or offering referrals to specialized services. Practices that recognize the link between physical and mental health are more likely to promote holistic well-being.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the COPD score for physicians in 28654 involves a multifaceted evaluation. It requires considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The healthcare landscape in Moravian Falls, NC, is likely to be influenced by its rural setting. It is vital to acknowledge this context while evaluating the availability of quality care for COPD patients. Further research, including direct engagement with local healthcare providers and patient advocacy groups, is crucial for a comprehensive and accurate assessment.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Moravian Falls, NC, and to explore potential opportunities for improvement in COPD care, consider utilizing the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.