28721, Clyde, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28721, Clyde, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.69 percent of the residents in 28721 has some form of health insurance. 39.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.95 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 28721 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,846 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28721. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,286 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 954 health care providers accessible to residents in 28721, Clyde, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Clyde, NC (ZIP Code 28721)

This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment for primary care physicians and resources within Clyde, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28721), focusing on factors crucial for effective COPD management. This includes physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all vital for patients navigating this chronic respiratory illness.

The first consideration is physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 28721 ZIP code is essential. This involves identifying all licensed practitioners and estimating their patient load. A higher ratio of patients per physician can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care, especially for a condition like COPD, which necessitates frequent monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and healthcare directories can provide initial figures. Further investigation is needed to ascertain the number of patients each physician manages, including the proportion of COPD patients within their practice.

The availability of primary care in Clyde is a critical factor in COPD management. Ideally, patients should have easy access to a physician within a reasonable distance. Geographic isolation, common in rural areas, can significantly impact access. Patients with COPD often experience exacerbations, necessitating prompt medical attention. Long travel times to appointments can delay treatment and worsen outcomes. The analysis should consider the proximity of practices to residential areas, public transportation options, and the availability of home healthcare services, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations.

Examining the characteristics of primary care practices in the area provides further insight. Are practices accepting new patients? This is a fundamental question, particularly for individuals newly diagnosed with COPD or relocating to the area. The size of the practice, whether it is a solo practice, a group practice, or part of a larger healthcare system, can influence the level of resources and specialized care available. Larger practices may have access to a wider range of specialists, diagnostic equipment, and support staff, such as respiratory therapists, who are essential for COPD management.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telemedicine, and its benefits for managing chronic conditions are now widely recognized. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs, reducing the need for in-person visits. For COPD patients, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for monitoring symptoms, adjusting medications, and providing education about self-management techniques. The analysis should identify which practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients.

Mental health resources are crucial for COPD patients. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices or through referrals. Do practices have on-site mental health professionals? Do they offer mental health screenings? Are there partnerships with local mental health providers? Access to mental health support is an essential component of comprehensive COPD care.

Standout practices within the 28721 ZIP code should be identified. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care, including proactive management, patient education, and access to specialized services, should be highlighted. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.

The analysis needs to consider the availability of specialized COPD services. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of COPD management, access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is also vital. The analysis should identify the availability of these specialists and services within the area or within a reasonable travel distance. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs, in particular, are highly effective in improving lung function, reducing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life for COPD patients.

Medication management is another crucial aspect. The analysis should examine how primary care practices handle medication prescriptions and refills. Do they offer electronic prescribing? Do they have systems in place to ensure medication adherence? Are they knowledgeable about the latest COPD medications and treatment guidelines? The analysis should also consider the affordability of medications and the availability of patient assistance programs.

Patient education and support are also essential. Practices that provide patients with education about COPD, including self-management techniques, medication use, and lifestyle modifications, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The analysis should assess the availability of patient education materials, support groups, and educational programs.

Finally, the analysis needs to consider the overall healthcare landscape in the area. This includes the availability of hospitals, emergency services, and other healthcare facilities. The analysis should assess the responsiveness of the healthcare system to COPD patients, including the availability of emergency care for exacerbations.

In conclusion, a thorough COPD Score analysis requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care resources, practice characteristics, and access to specialized services within Clyde, NC (ZIP Code 28721). This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized COPD services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality of care for COPD patients. This analysis will help determine the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Clyde, NC, and identify opportunities to improve the lives of those living with COPD.

Are you interested in visualizing this data geographically? CartoChrome maps can help you understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas with limited access to care.