28763, Otto, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28763, Otto, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.15 percent of the residents in 28763 has some form of health insurance. 37.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.58 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 28763 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 610 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28763. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 629 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,176 health care providers accessible to residents in 28763, Otto, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Otto, NC (ZIP Code 28763)

The analysis focuses on the quality of COPD care available to residents of Otto, North Carolina, specifically within the 28763 ZIP code. This assessment considers the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians, the adoption of telehealth, the integration of mental health services, and overall physician-to-patient ratios. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to manage this chronic respiratory condition and identify areas for potential improvement.

Otto, a small community nestled in the mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The geographical isolation and demographic profile of the area influence the delivery and effectiveness of medical services. COPD, a progressive lung disease, requires consistent monitoring and management, making access to quality primary care a critical factor in patient outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In rural areas like Otto, the availability of primary care physicians often falls short of the national average. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. Accurately determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires up-to-date data, which can fluctuate. However, publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local health departments can provide estimates and identify areas designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).

Assessing primary care availability in Otto involves identifying the existing practices and their capacity. The number of physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants practicing within the 28763 ZIP code is essential. Furthermore, the practices' acceptance of new patients, their hours of operation, and their ability to accommodate individuals with COPD are crucial considerations. Identifying the types of services offered, such as pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and access to respiratory therapists, is critical for providing comprehensive COPD care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in overcoming geographical barriers and improving access to care, especially for patients with chronic conditions like COPD. Telehealth allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, monitor their symptoms, and receive education and support without the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, and online patient portals, is assessed. Practices that embrace telehealth technologies demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved care management.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as a critical component of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that offer or collaborate with mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration can include on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health specialists, and educational programs to address the psychological challenges associated with COPD.

Evaluating the quality of care also involves examining the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for COPD management. This includes assessing the use of appropriate medications, the provision of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the implementation of smoking cessation counseling. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning are more likely to provide optimal care.

Identifying standout practices within the 28763 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. This involves considering factors such as patient satisfaction, physician experience, the availability of specialized services, and the adoption of innovative technologies. Practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews, employ experienced pulmonologists or physicians with specialized COPD training, and offer comprehensive services, including pulmonary rehabilitation, are considered high-performing.

The assessment considers the availability of support groups and educational resources for COPD patients. These resources can empower patients to actively manage their condition, improve their understanding of the disease, and connect with others facing similar challenges. Practices that actively promote patient education and facilitate access to support groups demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management.

The overall COPD score is a composite measure reflecting the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telehealth, the integration of mental health services, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the availability of support resources. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible healthcare system for COPD patients. This score can be used to compare the quality of care across different practices and identify areas for improvement.

The analysis acknowledges the limitations of relying solely on publicly available data. Accurate assessments require access to comprehensive patient-level data, which is often protected by privacy regulations. However, the analysis utilizes publicly available information and data from credible sources to provide a reasonable overview of the COPD care landscape in Otto.

The ongoing monitoring of healthcare trends and the evolving needs of the community are essential for ensuring the provision of high-quality COPD care. Regular updates to the COPD score analysis are recommended to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of innovative care models.

The goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This analysis aims to inform decision-making, improve healthcare access, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for individuals living with COPD in Otto, North Carolina. The identification of gaps in care and the promotion of best practices can lead to a more effective and patient-centered healthcare system.

For a more detailed and visually engaging understanding of the healthcare landscape in Otto, including physician locations, practice details, and potential areas for improvement, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available and the challenges faced by the community.