28906, Murphy, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28906, Murphy, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.31 percent of the residents in 28906 has some form of health insurance. 51.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.70 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 28906 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,848 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28906. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,397 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 715 health care providers accessible to residents in 28906, Murphy, North Carolina.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to the accessibility and quality of its healthcare providers. In the context of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a debilitating respiratory illness, the availability of specialized care and support systems is paramount. This analysis delves into the COPD score, a hypothetical composite measure reflecting the quality of care available to COPD patients, specifically examining the landscape for doctors in ZIP Code 28906, which encompasses Murphy, North Carolina, and assessing primary care availability within the town.

The COPD score, for the purpose of this analysis, is a multifaceted metric. It considers several key factors: the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of pulmonologists and respiratory specialists, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality of primary care services. Each element is weighted to reflect its impact on patient outcomes and the overall experience of living with COPD.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially less personalized care. In a rural area like Murphy, the physician-to-patient ratio may be a challenge, particularly for specialists like pulmonologists. The analysis would need to consider the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists practicing within ZIP Code 28906, and the estimated population of the area. This data, combined with information on the prevalence of COPD within the community, would provide a baseline for understanding the accessibility of care.

The presence of pulmonologists and respiratory specialists is critical for managing COPD. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose, treat, and monitor the disease effectively. Their availability within the local area, or the proximity of specialized care in neighboring communities, directly impacts the quality of care COPD patients receive. The analysis would assess the number of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists practicing in Murphy and the surrounding areas, and their affiliations with local hospitals and clinics. It would also consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are essential for improving lung function and quality of life for COPD patients.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial aspect of modern healthcare delivery, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The analysis would evaluate the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the use of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices, and online patient portals. The availability of telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve the COPD score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic illnesses, but they are vital for patients with COPD. The disease can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, significantly impacting quality of life. The analysis would assess the availability of mental health services within the community, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is particularly beneficial, as it can facilitate early detection and treatment of mental health issues.

Primary care availability in Murphy is a cornerstone of the COPD score. PCPs play a crucial role in managing COPD, coordinating care, and providing ongoing support. The analysis would assess the number of PCPs practicing in the area, their experience in treating COPD, and their access to diagnostic tools and treatment options. The quality of primary care is reflected in the patient experience, including appointment availability, communication with patients, and the coordination of care with specialists.

Standout practices within Murphy would be identified based on their commitment to COPD care. This would involve a review of their services, including their use of best practices, patient satisfaction surveys, and outcomes data. Practices that demonstrate a comprehensive approach to COPD management, including early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, patient education, and access to support services, would be recognized as exemplary.

The analysis would also consider the availability of resources for patient education and support. COPD patients benefit from education on disease management, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. The presence of patient education programs, support groups, and educational materials can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The COPD score, as a composite measure, would be calculated based on the weighted scores of each factor. The resulting score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality of COPD care available in Murphy and ZIP Code 28906. The score would be a dynamic metric, reflecting the ongoing changes in healthcare delivery and the evolving needs of the community.

The analysis would also consider the potential impact of socioeconomic factors on COPD care. Factors such as income, education, and access to transportation can affect patient outcomes. The analysis would consider these factors and how they might influence the COPD score.

The final COPD score for Murphy and ZIP Code 28906, based on this analysis, would be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients. It would highlight areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare system and provide a roadmap for improvement. By identifying gaps in care and promoting best practices, the analysis can contribute to improving the health and well-being of COPD patients in Murphy.

For a more detailed and visually intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Murphy and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools provide a comprehensive view of healthcare resources, allowing you to visualize data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.