28741, Highlands, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28741, Highlands, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.59 percent of the residents in 28741 has some form of health insurance. 45.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.78 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 28741 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 357 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28741. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,630 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 943 health care providers accessible to residents in 28741, Highlands, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Highlands, NC (ZIP Code 28741)

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within Highlands, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28741) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources – all crucial elements in effectively managing a condition like COPD. We will explore the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, providing a COPD Score assessment.

The foundation of COPD management hinges on accessible primary care. In Highlands, a relatively small community, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The town's remoteness and the seasonal influx of tourists can strain healthcare resources. Therefore, the number of primary care physicians per capita directly impacts access to routine check-ups, medication management, and early intervention – all vital for COPD patients. Information on the exact number of primary care physicians practicing within the specified ZIP code is crucial to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, when combined, can provide a preliminary understanding of the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per resident, could signal potential challenges in accessing timely care, especially during peak seasons or in emergencies.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts COPD care. Identifying standout practices involves assessing several factors. These include the availability of specialized equipment for pulmonary function testing (PFTs), the presence of certified respiratory therapists, and the implementation of evidence-based COPD management protocols. Practices that proactively engage patients in self-management strategies, such as providing education on inhaler techniques, smoking cessation programs, and pulmonary rehabilitation, are likely to achieve better outcomes. Feedback from patient surveys, reviews, and testimonials can also shed light on the patient experience and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for managing chronic conditions like COPD, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Highlands is a key indicator of the healthcare system's responsiveness to patient needs. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of vital signs, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption requires investigating which primary care practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the availability of technological support for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving access to care and enhancing patient convenience.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is mental health. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The integration of mental health resources into COPD care is therefore essential. This involves assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community. It also includes determining whether primary care practices screen patients for mental health issues and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health services. Practices that offer integrated mental health support, either through in-house providers or through strong partnerships with external mental health organizations, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care.

The COPD Score for Highlands, NC (ZIP Code 28741) is therefore a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these factors. It is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that changes with the evolving healthcare landscape. A high COPD Score would indicate a robust healthcare ecosystem with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality primary care practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing access to specialized services, and promoting the integration of mental health care.

To arrive at a precise COPD Score, detailed data collection is necessary. This includes a comprehensive survey of primary care practices, gathering information on physician staffing, equipment, service offerings, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health integration. Patient surveys and reviews would provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care. Publicly available data from government agencies and professional organizations can be utilized to supplement this information.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the COPD care landscape in Highlands. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. By focusing on the key elements of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration, we can work towards creating a healthcare system that effectively supports individuals living with COPD.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Highlands, including the locations of primary care practices, the availability of specialized services, and the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide a powerful tool for understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas where access to care may be limited.