28761, Nebo, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28761, Nebo, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.42 percent of the residents in 28761 has some form of health insurance. 41.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.90 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 28761 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,084 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28761. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,510 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,626 health care providers accessible to residents in 28761, Nebo, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Nebo, NC (ZIP Code 28761)

Analyzing the quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Nebo, North Carolina (ZIP code 28761) requires a multi-faceted approach. A "COPD Score" is not a standardized metric, but rather a composite assessment, reflecting access, quality of care, and resource availability. This analysis considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial for managing a chronic respiratory condition like COPD. The primary focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs) as they are typically the initial point of contact for patients and play a vital role in COPD diagnosis, management, and referral.

Nebo, a small community, likely presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area suggests a potential for limited resources compared to more urban centers. This analysis, therefore, attempts to paint a realistic picture of the landscape for COPD patients in this specific locale.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. Determining the exact number of PCPs actively practicing within ZIP code 28761 is the first step. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board or the American Medical Association can provide this information. Comparing the number of PCPs to the estimated population of Nebo provides an initial understanding of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. This is particularly important for COPD patients who require regular monitoring and management.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the area is important. Are physicians concentrated in a single clinic or hospital system, or are they spread across multiple practices? This distribution affects patient access and choice. Are there any urgent care facilities within the ZIP code or nearby? These facilities can provide an important safety net for acute exacerbations of COPD.

Identifying standout practices involves assessing several factors. Does a particular practice specialize in pulmonary care or have physicians with a demonstrated interest in respiratory diseases? This can be determined by examining physician profiles, practice websites, and patient reviews. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those related to COPD management, are also noteworthy. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive services, including spirometry (lung function testing) and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, are crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists, remote monitoring, and educational resources. Assessing the extent to which PCPs in Nebo utilize telemedicine for COPD management is critical. Do they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, or online patient education? Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving access and convenience for their patients. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals, is essential. Does the practice screen for mental health conditions? Are there partnerships with local mental health providers? The presence of these resources indicates a holistic approach to patient care.

Specific examples of practices and their characteristics within ZIP code 28761 are difficult to provide without direct access to proprietary data. However, a hypothetical scenario can illustrate the assessment process. Imagine a practice within the ZIP code that has two PCPs. They are affiliated with a larger hospital system and offer spirometry testing on-site. Their website highlights their commitment to patient education and offers links to COPD resources. They have also recently begun offering virtual follow-up appointments. This practice would likely receive a higher "COPD Score" compared to a practice with fewer resources or less emphasis on COPD management.

The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs in the area is also a key consideration. These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support to help patients manage their COPD symptoms and improve their quality of life. The proximity of such programs to Nebo is an important factor in assessing access to care.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups or patient education programs specifically for COPD patients is a positive indicator. These resources provide patients with a sense of community and empower them to actively participate in their care.

The overall "COPD Score" for Nebo, NC (28761) would be a composite of these factors. It would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of the practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services like pulmonary rehabilitation. A high score would indicate good access to care, comprehensive services, and a patient-centered approach to COPD management. A low score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, or improving access to mental health resources.

In conclusion, the assessment of COPD care in Nebo, NC (28761) reveals a complex landscape. While the rural nature of the area presents challenges, the presence of dedicated practices and the adoption of innovative technologies can positively impact patient outcomes. Understanding the specific resources available and identifying areas for improvement is crucial for ensuring that COPD patients receive the best possible care.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of healthcare resources in Nebo and surrounding areas, explore the power of geographic data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed view of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, offering a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.