39507, Gulfport, Mississippi COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 39507, Gulfport, Mississippi is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.68 percent of the residents in 39507 has some form of health insurance. 35.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.26 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 39507 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,072 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39507. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,929 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,424 health care providers accessible to residents in 39507, Gulfport, Mississippi.

## COPD Score Analysis: Gulfport, MS (ZIP Code 39507)

Analyzing the availability of quality COPD care in Gulfport, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39507) necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including physician density, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the availability of supporting mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of COPD care rests on access to qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). In Gulfport, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend suggests a potential shortage of PCPs relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient-physician interaction, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate management of COPD. The impact is particularly felt by the elderly population, a demographic disproportionately affected by COPD.

Within the existing primary care infrastructure, certain practices stand out. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD management. This includes early diagnosis through spirometry, regular monitoring of lung function, and patient education regarding medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and exacerbation management. Some practices also excel in coordinating care with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve COPD care access and management in Gulfport. Telehealth allows for remote consultations, medication refills, and symptom monitoring, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically underserved areas. The ability to conduct virtual check-ups can also reduce the burden on the healthcare system and improve patient adherence to treatment plans. The degree to which practices have embraced telehealth, including the availability of remote monitoring devices, significantly impacts the overall COPD score.

The psychological impact of COPD is often underestimated. Chronic respiratory illness can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, including access to therapists, support groups, and psychiatric services, is crucial for comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral processes into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The presence of these resources significantly elevates the quality of care.

Examining the specific characteristics of individual practices is essential for a nuanced assessment. Some practices may specialize in respiratory care, employing pulmonologists or respiratory therapists. Others may have dedicated COPD management programs, incorporating patient education, pulmonary rehabilitation, and smoking cessation support. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is also crucial. EHRs facilitate data sharing, improve care coordination, and enable better tracking of patient outcomes.

The availability of specialized services, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs, is another key factor. These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support to help patients manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and reduce hospitalizations. The presence and accessibility of such programs contribute significantly to a higher COPD score.

Furthermore, the level of patient education provided by practices is a critical determinant of care quality. Practices that actively educate patients about their condition, medications, inhaler techniques, and self-management strategies empower patients to take control of their health and reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations. Educational materials, support groups, and access to respiratory therapists are all valuable components of a comprehensive education program.

The local healthcare landscape is dynamic, with practices continually evolving and adapting to meet the needs of their patients. Regular assessments are needed to understand the current state of COPD care. The integration of data from various sources, including patient surveys, clinical outcomes, and healthcare utilization patterns, can provide a more comprehensive and accurate picture of the quality of care.

The quality of COPD care is also influenced by the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the availability of emergency services, access to specialized equipment, and the overall coordination of care among different healthcare providers. The strength of these supporting systems directly impacts the patient experience and outcomes.

The 'COPD Score' for Gulfport, MS (39507) is not a static number, but a reflection of the complex interplay of various factors. While specific scores require a detailed analysis of individual practices and resources, the assessment highlights several areas for improvement. These include increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health services, and promoting patient education.

The overall 'COPD Score' for Gulfport, MS (39507) is influenced by the availability of resources, the quality of care provided, and the accessibility of services. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients with COPD receive the best possible care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gulfport, including the location of primary care practices, the availability of specialized services, and the distribution of resources, explore CartoChrome maps. This interactive platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas where improvements are needed.