28762, Old Fort, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28762, Old Fort, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.91 percent of the residents in 28762 has some form of health insurance. 45.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.82 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 28762 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28762. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,712 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,664 health care providers accessible to residents in 28762, Old Fort, North Carolina.

The following analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians and associated resources for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Old Fort, North Carolina (ZIP code 28762). This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in managing this chronic respiratory illness.

Old Fort, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area, coupled with an aging population, potentially increases the prevalence of COPD. Access to timely and comprehensive care is therefore paramount.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, analyzing data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Census Bureau provides a reasonable estimate. The national average for primary care physicians per 100,000 people is around 100. In rural areas like Old Fort, this number is often significantly lower. A lower ratio can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced continuity of care, and potential difficulties in managing chronic conditions like COPD. Local data would be crucial to determine the exact ratio, but given the rural context, it is likely that Old Fort faces a shortage of primary care physicians.

The presence of standout medical practices is critical in mitigating the challenges posed by physician shortages. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, employ innovative approaches, and may serve as regional hubs for specialized services. Identifying such practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and the availability of specialized COPD management programs. Practices that offer pulmonary function testing, respiratory therapy, and patient education programs are particularly valuable. They are better equipped to provide comprehensive COPD care. The analysis would need to identify specific practices in the 28762 ZIP code and evaluate their services.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. It enables remote consultations, medication management, and patient monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Examining the adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care practices in Old Fort is essential. Practices that offer telehealth services can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care for COPD patients. This includes virtual appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online access to patient education materials. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is also a crucial factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of COPD management. Living with COPD can be physically and emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for addressing these issues. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health services in Old Fort, including the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of therapists accepting new patients, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. The integration of mental health screening and counseling into COPD care can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The assessment of COPD resources in Old Fort must also consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs, which typically involve exercise training, education, and support, are proven to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for COPD patients. The analysis would need to identify the presence of such programs in the area and evaluate their accessibility and quality.

Medication adherence is another critical factor in COPD management. Patients must consistently take their prescribed medications to control their symptoms and prevent exacerbations. Assessing the availability of pharmacy services and medication assistance programs in Old Fort is important. Access to affordable medications and pharmacist consultations can significantly improve medication adherence rates.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the presence of community resources that support COPD patients. This includes support groups, educational programs, and access to oxygen therapy and other respiratory equipment. Local hospitals and community health centers often play a vital role in providing these resources.

In conclusion, the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors in providing effective COPD care in Old Fort, North Carolina. The assessment should also consider physician-to-patient ratios, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, medication adherence support, and community resources. A comprehensive analysis, incorporating data from various sources, would provide a more accurate assessment of the resources available to COPD patients in the 28762 ZIP code. This analysis should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Old Fort, including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of healthcare resources, enabling you to visualize the distribution of services and identify potential gaps in care.