28768, Pisgah Forest, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28768, Pisgah Forest, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.51 percent of the residents in 28768 has some form of health insurance. 45.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.68 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 28768 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,348 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28768. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,310 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,154 health care providers accessible to residents in 28768, Pisgah Forest, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Pisgah Forest (ZIP Code 28768)

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within Pisgah Forest (ZIP code 28768) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for comprehensive COPD care. The goal is to provide a COPD Score assessment, though a definitive numerical score is impossible without direct access to proprietary data. Instead, this analysis offers a qualitative ranking, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric indicates the potential accessibility of primary care providers. While precise figures for Pisgah Forest alone are challenging to obtain publicly, data from the broader Transylvania County provides a general context. A lower physician-to-patient ratio suggests greater access to care, potentially leading to earlier COPD diagnosis and better disease management. Conversely, a higher ratio may indicate longer wait times, potentially delaying treatment and exacerbating the condition. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) should be consulted to get a more accurate picture of the physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly impact COPD care. Practices that emphasize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and readily accept new patients are more accessible and conducive to effective COPD management. Practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate better communication and coordination of care, critical for patients with chronic conditions. Furthermore, practices that have specialized respiratory therapists or nurses on staff can provide more targeted support for COPD patients. The presence of these resources directly impacts the quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Its adoption within Pisgah Forest primary care practices is a crucial factor in this assessment. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, score higher in this assessment. This is especially important for COPD patients who may struggle with travel to in-person appointments, especially during periods of exacerbation.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD care is mental health. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices that recognize this and integrate mental health resources into their care model are essential. This includes providing access to on-site therapists, offering referrals to mental health specialists, and screening patients for mental health conditions. The availability of these resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients will score higher.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare ecosystem. This involves researching individual practices, examining patient reviews, and consulting with local healthcare professionals. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offer comprehensive COPD management programs, and actively participate in community outreach initiatives deserve recognition. These practices are often at the forefront of providing high-quality COPD care.

The overall COPD Score for primary care in Pisgah Forest (28768) is likely moderate, considering the rural nature of the area. The physician-to-patient ratio may be a challenge, potentially limiting access to care. The adoption of telemedicine and integration of mental health resources are likely variable across different practices. However, the presence of dedicated and patient-focused practices can significantly improve the overall score.

To enhance the COPD Score, several recommendations can be made. First, increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area is essential. Second, encouraging practices to adopt telemedicine and integrate mental health services would greatly improve care. Third, promoting patient education and awareness about COPD is crucial. Finally, fostering collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and community organizations can create a more comprehensive and supportive healthcare environment.

To further analyze the healthcare landscape of Pisgah Forest and gain a more granular understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and potential areas for improvement, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a more informed assessment of access to care and identification of potential gaps in services.