27810, Belhaven, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27810, Belhaven, North Carolina is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.61 percent of the residents in 27810 has some form of health insurance. 50.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.17 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 27810 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 744 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27810. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 971 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32 health care providers accessible to residents in 27810, Belhaven, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Belhaven, NC (ZIP Code 27810)

Analyzing the COPD landscape in Belhaven, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27810) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the prevalence of COPD, the availability and quality of primary care, the accessibility of specialized respiratory care, and supporting resources like mental health services. The following analysis aims to provide a COPD Score assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Belhaven, a small town in Beaufort County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding COPD management. The demographics of the area, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, significantly influence COPD prevalence and the demands placed on the healthcare system. Rural communities often face limitations in healthcare access, making it crucial to assess the availability and distribution of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare workforce. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians in 27810 is paramount. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, and local healthcare providers would be necessary to calculate this ratio accurately. This ratio forms the bedrock of the COPD Score assessment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and specialization of available primary care are critical. Are the PCPs in Belhaven well-versed in COPD management? Do they have experience in diagnosing, treating, and managing chronic respiratory conditions? Do they have access to the latest diagnostic tools and treatment protocols? Investigating the training, certifications, and experience of local PCPs is essential. This includes evaluating their familiarity with spirometry, pulmonary function testing, and the use of inhaled medications.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. These practices might demonstrate exemplary COPD management through proactive patient education, robust disease management programs, and strong patient outcomes. Examining patient satisfaction surveys, reviewing online ratings and reviews, and assessing the availability of patient support groups can help identify these high-performing practices. Investigating their use of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, also contributes to the assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improving access to care for patients in rural areas. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources can significantly enhance COPD management. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among local PCPs and specialists is vital. This includes assessing the availability of telehealth platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and patient satisfaction with telemedicine experiences.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked in COPD management, but they are profoundly important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for comprehensive COPD care. Assessing the accessibility of these resources, including their proximity to primary care practices and the acceptance of insurance, is essential.

Specialized respiratory care is another important component of the COPD Score. While primary care physicians provide initial diagnosis and management, pulmonologists and respiratory therapists offer specialized expertise. The availability of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs within or near Belhaven is crucial. Investigating the proximity of these specialists, the waiting times for appointments, and the range of services offered contributes to the overall assessment.

The COPD Score should also consider access to medication and respiratory equipment. The availability of affordable medications, including bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy, is essential. Assessing the accessibility of local pharmacies, the affordability of medications, and the availability of respiratory equipment suppliers is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of financial assistance programs for patients struggling to afford their medications.

Furthermore, patient education and self-management support are essential. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing education on COPD management, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Assessing the availability of patient education materials, self-management programs, and support groups contributes to the COPD Score. This includes evaluating the use of patient portals, educational websites, and mobile apps.

The overall COPD Score for Belhaven, NC (27810) will be a composite metric based on the factors discussed above. The score will reflect the availability, accessibility, and quality of COPD-related healthcare services in the area. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare ecosystem with readily available primary care, specialized respiratory care, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and patient education resources. A low score would suggest significant challenges in accessing and receiving quality COPD care.

This analysis highlights the need for detailed data collection and ongoing monitoring. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the COPD Score must be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of support resources. This ongoing assessment will help identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients in Belhaven receive the best possible care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Belhaven, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the COPD landscape in 27810 and beyond.