27816, Castalia, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27816, Castalia, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.84 percent of the residents in 27816 has some form of health insurance. 63.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.12 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 27816 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 751 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27816. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,142 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,502 health care providers accessible to residents in 27816, Castalia, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Castalia, NC (ZIP Code 27816)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific focus on resources relevant to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), within the context of Castalia, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27816). The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The analysis considers factors crucial for COPD management, including physician availability, access to specialized care, and the integration of mental health support.

The foundation of any COPD score analysis lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Castalia, a predominantly rural area, this ratio is likely to be a significant factor. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving a geographically dispersed population can create challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. This scarcity can be exacerbated by the prevalence of COPD, a chronic respiratory disease that requires regular monitoring and management. The analysis will examine the estimated PCP density within the ZIP code, comparing it to both state and national averages. This comparative data will reveal whether the area faces a critical shortage or offers a more favorable physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of care are paramount. The analysis will delve into the specific practices operating within the ZIP code, evaluating their reputations, patient reviews, and the range of services they provide. Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in COPD management, will be identified. This assessment will consider factors such as the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFTs), access to respiratory therapists, and the implementation of patient education programs. Practices that actively engage in COPD-specific initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs or support groups, will be given higher consideration.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical area of investigation. Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to the challenges of rural healthcare, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in Castalia have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring) and the technologies employed. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their COPD care models will be highlighted as examples of innovation and improved patient access.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health is crucial for COPD patients. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations it imposes, can significantly impact mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and social isolation are common comorbidities. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health resources within the community, including access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices will be particularly valued. Practices that offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health specialists, or partnerships with mental health organizations will be recognized for their holistic approach to patient care.

Further, the analysis will consider the availability of specialized respiratory care. While PCPs are the first point of contact for most patients, access to pulmonologists and respiratory specialists is essential for managing complex COPD cases. The analysis will assess the proximity of pulmonology practices to Castalia, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of specialized diagnostic and treatment options. The presence of home healthcare services, providing in-home respiratory therapy and support, will also be evaluated.

The evaluation will also consider the availability of resources for medication management. COPD patients often require multiple medications, and adherence to treatment plans is critical for controlling symptoms and preventing exacerbations. The analysis will examine the accessibility of pharmacies within the ZIP code, the availability of medication counseling services, and the use of technologies to improve medication adherence, such as electronic prescribing and medication reminders.

The analysis will also assess the impact of socioeconomic factors on COPD care. The prevalence of COPD is often higher in underserved populations, and factors such as poverty, lack of transportation, and limited health literacy can create significant barriers to accessing care. The analysis will consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the local practices, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the implementation of culturally sensitive care practices.

Finally, the analysis will consider the level of community engagement. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as health fairs, educational workshops, and outreach programs, will be recognized for their commitment to improving the overall health of the community. The presence of patient advocacy groups and support networks will also be evaluated.

In conclusion, the COPD score analysis for Castalia, NC (ZIP Code 27816) provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, focusing on factors crucial for COPD management. While specific data points will be gathered and analyzed, the overall assessment will consider physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialized care, medication management, socioeconomic factors, and community engagement. The findings will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Castalia, including the location of practices, physician density, and the distribution of resources, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome's maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, providing a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in COPD care.