28749, Little Switzerland, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28749, Little Switzerland, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28749 has some form of health insurance. 61.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.57 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 28749 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28749. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,195 health care providers accessible to residents in 28749, Little Switzerland, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28749 & Primary Care in Little Switzerland

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians in ZIP code 28749, encompassing Little Switzerland, North Carolina, requires a nuanced approach. A "COPD Score," in this context, is a conceptual framework used to assess the capacity of the local healthcare system to effectively manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a prevalent condition, especially in areas with older populations and potential environmental factors. This analysis considers several key factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive COPD management.

Little Switzerland, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges. The mountainous terrain can create difficulties in accessing healthcare, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions. The population demographic, likely with a significant proportion of retirees, increases the potential prevalence of COPD. The remoteness may also limit the number of healthcare providers available.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with demographic information from the U.S. Census Bureau, would be necessary to determine the exact ratio within 28749. However, based on the rural nature of the area, it's reasonable to anticipate a ratio that is less favorable than in more urban settings. This potentially impacts the "COPD Score" negatively.

Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating the quality of care provided by existing primary care providers. This assessment would involve reviewing patient reviews, surveying practices for their COPD management protocols, and investigating their use of evidence-based guidelines. Key aspects include the availability of spirometry testing (a crucial diagnostic tool for COPD), access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the practice's commitment to patient education regarding smoking cessation and medication adherence. Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to COPD management, including regular follow-up appointments and patient education programs, would receive higher marks, positively influencing the "COPD Score."

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Practices utilizing telemedicine for COPD management, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication management, would score favorably. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and provide timely interventions can significantly improve COPD outcomes. This is especially crucial for residents of Little Switzerland, where travel can be challenging. The "COPD Score" would be enhanced by practices that have embraced telemedicine.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Individuals with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore crucial for comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or referrals to external mental health professionals, would contribute positively to the "COPD Score." Access to mental health support can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life. The absence of such support would detract from the score.

Specific practices within 28749 need to be investigated. While a full analysis would require on-the-ground research, it is likely that practices are limited. The size and remoteness of Little Switzerland suggest that patients may need to travel to nearby towns or cities for specialized care or a wider range of services. This travel distance can impact the "COPD Score" negatively, highlighting the need for innovative solutions like telemedicine. The overall "COPD Score" for 28749 would likely be lower than that of a more urban area, due to the challenges of rural healthcare.

The "COPD Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that can change over time. Improvements in any of the factors discussed—physician-to-patient ratio, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources—would lead to a higher score, indicating improved capacity to manage COPD effectively. Conversely, any decline in these areas would lower the score.

In conclusion, evaluating the "COPD Score" for 28749 reveals a complex picture. The rural location presents significant challenges, including potentially limited physician availability and travel distances. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services can help mitigate these challenges. The "COPD Score" is a useful tool for identifying areas for improvement and for guiding efforts to enhance COPD care in Little Switzerland.

For a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28749, including the location of primary care providers, their services, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome can provide valuable insights into the accessibility and distribution of healthcare resources in the area.