28771, Robbinsville, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28771, Robbinsville, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.56 percent of the residents in 28771 has some form of health insurance. 47.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.96 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 28771 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,541 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28771. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,784 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 71 health care providers accessible to residents in 28771, Robbinsville, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Robbinsville, NC (ZIP Code 28771)

Analyzing the availability of primary care and related resources for individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Robbinsville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28771) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the current landscape of healthcare providers, the utilization of technology, and the accessibility of mental health support, all crucial elements in managing this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis will provide a "COPD Score" assessment, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care within this specific geographic area.

One of the primary determinants of a strong COPD Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. Robbinsville, being a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a shortage of healthcare professionals. The exact physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) in 28771 is critical. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and the American Medical Association (AMA) can be used to determine this ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, would negatively impact the COPD Score. This means patients might face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation, which are critical for COPD management.

Beyond the raw numbers, the type of primary care practices available matters. Are there multi-specialty practices that can offer a more integrated approach to care, including pulmonologists or respiratory therapists? The presence of such specialists within the community, or readily accessible through referral networks, is essential. Practices that offer comprehensive care, including spirometry testing (a key diagnostic tool for COPD), pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and patient education resources, would significantly boost the COPD Score. The quality of these services, as assessed through patient reviews and accreditation status (e.g., by organizations like the American Lung Association), further influences the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. In a rural setting, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals are better equipped to manage COPD patients. These technologies can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services, coupled with the ease of use and technical support offered by the practice, will positively impact the COPD Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are critical for individuals with COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations it imposes, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score must consider the availability of mental health services within the community. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their standard of care, or that have partnerships with mental health providers, will receive a higher score. The accessibility and affordability of these services are also important considerations.

To assess the COPD Score, we need to consider the following:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** The number of primary care physicians and specialists (e.g., pulmonologists) per 1,000 residents.
* **Practice Quality:** The availability of diagnostic tools (spirometry), pulmonary rehabilitation programs, patient education resources, and the practice's accreditation status.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals.
* **Mental Health Resources:** The availability of therapists, psychiatrists, support groups, and integrated mental health services.
* **Accessibility:** The affordability of care, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the availability of transportation assistance.

Based on the analysis of these factors, we can assign a score. For example, a score of 1-3 might indicate limited access to care and resources, while a score of 8-10 might reflect a robust and comprehensive healthcare system.

To determine the COPD Score for Robbinsville, NC (28771), a comprehensive data collection process is necessary. This involves:

* **Data Gathering:** Collecting data from public health agencies, healthcare providers, and patient advocacy groups.
* **Provider Surveys:** Contacting primary care practices and specialists in the area to gather information on their services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration.
* **Patient Surveys:** Gathering feedback from COPD patients in the community to assess their experiences with healthcare access and quality.
* **Resource Mapping:** Identifying the location and availability of various resources, such as pharmacies, support groups, and transportation services.

The final COPD Score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals with COPD in Robbinsville, NC. It will provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. A low score would highlight the need for initiatives to increase the number of healthcare providers, expand telemedicine services, improve mental health support, and enhance patient education programs. A higher score would indicate a well-resourced healthcare system that effectively meets the needs of COPD patients.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Robbinsville and beyond, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, resource availability, and other relevant data, helping you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.