27926, Corapeake, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27926, Corapeake, North Carolina is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.26 percent of the residents in 27926 has some form of health insurance. 47.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.51 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 27926 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 361 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27926. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 457 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 43 health care providers accessible to residents in 27926, Corapeake, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27926 and Primary Care Availability in Corapeake**

The assessment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) care within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the quality and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) in ZIP Code 27926, which encompasses the town of Corapeake, North Carolina. We will evaluate key factors influencing COPD management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive COPD care strategy.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A low ratio, reflecting a scarcity of PCPs, can significantly impede timely diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing management of COPD. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside publicly available physician directories and insurance provider networks, would need to be analyzed to determine the exact PCP-to-patient ratio within 27926. This analysis must consider the total population of the zip code, the number of practicing PCPs (including internal medicine, family medicine, and geriatric specialists), and the patient load each physician typically carries. Corapeake, being a small community, may face challenges in attracting and retaining a sufficient number of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and limited choices for patients.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices in COPD management. They may be distinguished by their commitment to early detection, comprehensive patient education, and the utilization of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Key indicators include the use of spirometry for accurate diagnosis, the implementation of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the proactive management of exacerbations. Practices employing certified respiratory therapists, offering smoking cessation programs, and actively participating in quality improvement initiatives would be considered high-performing. The presence of dedicated COPD clinics or specialized programs would further enhance a practice's ranking. A thorough review of practice websites, patient testimonials, and physician ratings platforms, along with interviews with local healthcare professionals, would be necessary to identify and evaluate these standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital in rural areas like Corapeake. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. For COPD patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. The availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients are key considerations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their COPD care pathways, offering secure and user-friendly platforms, would receive higher scores. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is a critical factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of COPD care. 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 psychiatrists, is therefore essential. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would be considered more comprehensive. The integration of mental health services into the overall COPD care plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The availability of support groups and educational resources on managing the psychological aspects of COPD is also important.

To assess the availability of primary care in Corapeake, we must examine the number of PCPs practicing within the town itself and the surrounding areas. The distance patients must travel to access care is a significant factor. A lack of local PCPs necessitates travel to neighboring towns or cities, potentially creating barriers to care, especially for elderly or mobility-impaired patients. The availability of transportation options, such as public transportation or community-based transportation services, is also a key consideration. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers, which often serve underserved populations, would positively impact the availability score.

The overall COPD score for doctors in 27926 and primary care availability in Corapeake would be a composite score derived from the factors discussed above. Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio and the presence of standout practices might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption or the availability of mental health resources. The final score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality and accessibility of COPD care in the area, allowing for informed decision-making and the identification of areas for improvement.

This analysis is intended to provide a general overview of the factors influencing COPD care in 27926 and Corapeake. A comprehensive assessment would require a more detailed data collection and analysis process.

For a visual representation of the data, including physician locations, practice locations, and the availability of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize the data and identify areas of need within the community.