28805, Asheville, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28805, Asheville, North Carolina is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.36 percent of the residents in 28805 has some form of health insurance. 38.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.11 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 28805 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,519 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28805. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,719 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,777 health care providers accessible to residents in 28805, Asheville, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Asheville, NC (ZIP Code 28805) & Primary Care Landscape

Asheville, North Carolina, nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique healthcare environment. This analysis focuses on the COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) score for primary care physicians within the 28805 ZIP code, evaluating factors crucial to effective COPD management. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, particularly for individuals managing COPD.

The 28805 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Asheville, is home to a diverse population, including a substantial number of retirees and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. This demographic profile necessitates robust primary care infrastructure, especially given the prevalence of COPD, a chronic and debilitating lung disease. The COPD score, in this context, acts as a proxy for the overall quality of care, considering the ease of access, the expertise of the physicians, and the availability of supportive services.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical component of the COPD score. High ratios can lead to reduced appointment availability, shorter consultation times, and potentially less comprehensive care. Ideally, the 28805 area should demonstrate a physician-to-patient ratio that allows for sufficient time and resources to manage COPD effectively. This includes regular check-ups, pulmonary function testing, medication management, and patient education. An analysis of local data would reveal the specific ratios, identifying areas where access to primary care might be strained.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care hinges on the capabilities of individual practices. Standout practices within the 28805 ZIP code often differentiate themselves through a combination of factors. These might include a specialization in pulmonology or respiratory care, demonstrated proficiency in COPD management guidelines, and a patient-centered approach. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer specialized programs, such as pulmonary rehabilitation, would likely score higher on the COPD scale. These practices are more likely to offer comprehensive care, including early detection, proactive treatment, and ongoing support.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in the COPD score. Telemedicine, including video consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The ability to remotely monitor patients' vital signs, such as oxygen saturation and heart rate, can enable early intervention and prevent exacerbations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, integrating it seamlessly into their workflows, would receive a higher score. This reflects a commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but they are an essential part of the overall COPD score. COPD can have a significant impact on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that offer or have readily available access to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, are better equipped to provide holistic care. Integrated mental health services can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The overall COPD score for the 28805 ZIP code would also reflect the availability of specialized respiratory services within the area. This includes access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The proximity of these services, along with the ease of referral processes, would be factored into the score. A well-coordinated healthcare system, where primary care physicians can easily connect patients with specialized services, is crucial for effective COPD management.

The analysis would also consider the availability of patient education resources. COPD patients need to understand their condition, their medications, and their self-management strategies. Practices that provide educational materials, offer group classes, and actively engage patients in their care would receive a higher score. Patient empowerment is a key component of successful COPD management.

Furthermore, the COPD score would take into account the use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate better communication between healthcare providers, improve care coordination, and allow for more efficient data analysis. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better positioned to manage COPD patients and track their progress. The ability to share patient information seamlessly across different providers is a significant advantage.

The COPD score is not simply a numerical value. It represents a complex evaluation of the healthcare landscape, considering various factors that influence the quality of care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system within the 28805 ZIP code, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. This can help patients make informed decisions about their care and encourage healthcare providers to optimize their services.

This analysis aims to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the state of COPD care in Asheville. The availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the presence of specialized resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. By understanding these factors, we can work towards improving outcomes for individuals living with COPD.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 28805 ZIP code, including the distribution of primary care physicians, the location of specialized services, and the availability of resources, we recommend exploring the data through CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a dynamic and interactive visualization of the information, allowing you to explore the healthcare environment in detail.