28752, Marion, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28752, Marion, North Carolina is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.91 percent of the residents in 28752 has some form of health insurance. 40.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.16 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 28752 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,130 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28752. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,628 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,590 health care providers accessible to residents in 28752, Marion, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Marion, NC (ZIP Code 28752)

This analysis delves into the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care within the Marion, North Carolina, area, specifically focusing on the 28752 ZIP code and the broader primary care availability within the town. We will evaluate the accessibility and quality of care, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for managing COPD effectively. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "COPD Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator of this accessibility. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient-physician interaction time, and potentially compromised care. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios require dynamic data, publicly available sources, such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, can be used to estimate this ratio for the 28752 ZIP code and Marion. This initial assessment is fundamental to understanding the baseline capacity of the local healthcare infrastructure.

Identifying "standout practices" is crucial. These are medical facilities that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in COPD care. This can be gauged by several factors. Does the practice have a dedicated respiratory therapist? Do they offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs? Do they actively participate in COPD-related clinical trials or research? Are they recognized by national organizations for their commitment to respiratory health? Practices that excel in these areas are likely to provide superior patient outcomes and a more comprehensive approach to COPD management. Gathering information on these practices involves researching online reviews, consulting with local healthcare professionals, and examining publicly available data on quality metrics.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for COPD patients, particularly those with mobility issues or living in geographically isolated areas. It allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations with pulmonologists and primary care physicians, and access to educational resources. The availability and utilization of telemedicine platforms within Marion's primary care practices can significantly impact the COPD Score. Assessing this requires investigating which practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the patient satisfaction levels with these services.

The intricate link between COPD and mental health cannot be overstated. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive COPD care. Does the local healthcare system offer integrated mental health services within primary care practices? Are there readily accessible mental health professionals specializing in respiratory illnesses? Are support groups available for COPD patients and their families? The presence and accessibility of these resources are crucial for addressing the holistic needs of COPD patients and improving their overall quality of life.

Beyond the immediate healthcare providers, the availability of ancillary services contributes to the overall COPD Score. This includes access to pharmacies specializing in respiratory medications, durable medical equipment suppliers, and pulmonary rehabilitation centers. The ease with which patients can access these services influences their ability to manage their condition effectively. Analyzing the geographical distribution of these services within the 28752 ZIP code and Marion helps to understand the logistical challenges patients may face in accessing the care they need.

To further refine the COPD Score, an analysis of patient outcomes is essential. This involves examining data on hospital readmission rates for COPD exacerbations, patient satisfaction surveys, and the overall effectiveness of treatment plans. While obtaining specific patient outcome data requires access to protected health information, public health data and aggregated reports can provide valuable insights into the overall effectiveness of COPD care within the region.

The final COPD Score for Marion, NC (ZIP Code 28752) is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. A high score indicates a healthcare system well-equipped to manage COPD effectively, with good physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, robust telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and a strong network of ancillary services. A low score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing telemedicine capabilities, and expanding mental health support.

This detailed analysis provides a snapshot of the COPD care landscape in Marion. However, healthcare dynamics are constantly evolving. To visualize these factors and gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of resources and the accessibility of care, consider utilizing the power of mapping technology. Explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome, which can help you visualize physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of supporting services. This visual representation can provide a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities within the local healthcare system, ultimately leading to improved COPD care for the residents of Marion.