27920, Buxton, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27920, Buxton, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.24 percent of the residents in 27920 has some form of health insurance. 27.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.79 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 27920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 333 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27920. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 259 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21 health care providers accessible to residents in 27920, Buxton, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27920 and Primary Care in Buxton, NC**

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and the resources dedicated to managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within ZIP code 27920, which encompasses Buxton, North Carolina, requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape. This analysis will assess the current state of primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a COPD score assessment.

Buxton, a small coastal community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access. The population density is relatively low, which often translates to a lower concentration of medical professionals. This geographical reality significantly impacts the availability of primary care physicians, a critical factor in the early diagnosis and ongoing management of COPD. Patients with COPD require regular check-ups, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation, all of which are best facilitated through a strong primary care foundation.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access. While precise figures require ongoing data collection, it's reasonable to assume that the physician-to-patient ratio in Buxton is higher than the national average. This means fewer physicians are available to serve a potentially large patient base, including those with COPD. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying standout practices within the 27920 ZIP code is essential. These practices may demonstrate best practices in COPD management. They might have specialized training in pulmonary medicine, offer comprehensive diagnostic services, and provide patient education programs. Practices that actively engage in proactive COPD screening, particularly for at-risk populations like smokers, demonstrate a commitment to early intervention. Furthermore, practices with a multidisciplinary approach, involving respiratory therapists, nurses, and other specialists, often provide superior care.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in a geographically isolated area like Buxton. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations. The availability of virtual consultations for medication management, symptom monitoring, and follow-up appointments can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients. The level of telemedicine adoption amongst primary care physicians within the ZIP code is a key factor in the COPD score assessment.

The integration of mental health resources is another vital component of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices that offer or have readily available referrals to mental health services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to therapists, support groups, and psychiatric services. The availability of these resources is a critical factor in the overall COPD score.

To assess the COPD score, several factors must be considered. First, the physician-to-patient ratio will be analyzed. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) will negatively impact the score. Second, the availability of specialized COPD services, such as pulmonary function testing and respiratory therapy, will be evaluated. Third, the extent of telemedicine adoption will be assessed. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine will receive a higher score. Fourth, the integration of mental health resources will be evaluated. Practices with readily available mental health services will receive a higher score. Finally, the presence of patient education programs and proactive COPD screening initiatives will be considered.

The COPD score will be presented as a numerical value, with a higher score indicating better access to care and more comprehensive COPD management resources. The score will reflect the overall quality of primary care and the availability of essential services for COPD patients within the 27920 ZIP code. This score serves as a benchmark for evaluating the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

The analysis of the healthcare landscape in Buxton, NC, reveals both challenges and opportunities. The geographical isolation of the community presents hurdles in access to care, but the potential for telemedicine and the proactive adoption of patient-centered care models offers a pathway to improved outcomes for COPD patients.

The primary care availability in Buxton is a crucial factor in the overall health of the community. The ability of residents to access timely and appropriate medical care, particularly for chronic conditions like COPD, directly impacts their quality of life and overall well-being. Addressing the challenges of physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health resources are essential steps in improving the COPD score and ensuring that residents of Buxton have access to the care they need.

The healthcare landscape in Buxton is dynamic. The ongoing efforts of healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare access and COPD management in the area. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of the COPD score are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

The provision of healthcare in rural communities such as Buxton requires a tailored approach that considers the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the local environment. The successful management of COPD requires a collaborative effort involving primary care physicians, specialists, patients, and community resources. The COPD score serves as a tool for assessing the effectiveness of these efforts and identifying areas for improvement.

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources in the 27920 ZIP code and beyond, including physician locations, practice specialties, and telemedicine availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.