27950, Knotts Island, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27950, Knotts Island, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.57 percent of the residents in 27950 has some form of health insurance. 22.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.57 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 27950 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 358 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27950. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 220 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 188 health care providers accessible to residents in 27950, Knotts Island, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Knotts Island, NC (ZIP Code 27950)

Analyzing the COPD landscape in Knotts Island, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27950) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, mental health resources, and highlight any standout practices within the area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and to assess the overall healthcare environment.

Knotts Island, a relatively small and geographically isolated community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population density and rural setting often translate to reduced access to specialized medical care. This is particularly relevant for a condition like COPD, which often requires ongoing management, frequent check-ups, and access to pulmonary specialists.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

A fundamental aspect of COPD management is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians serve as the first point of contact for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care coordination. The availability of PCPs in Knotts Island, and the surrounding areas that serve the ZIP code, is a crucial factor in the COPD score. A low physician-to-patient ratio (i.e., a higher number of patients per physician) can strain resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced quality of care. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP Code 27950 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Census Bureau, and medical directories should be consulted to determine the number of practicing PCPs within the area and the estimated population they serve.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of PCPs matters. Are the available physicians located within Knotts Island itself, or do residents need to travel to neighboring towns or cities like Currituck or Elizabeth City for appointments? Travel time and transportation limitations can significantly impact access to care, especially for individuals with COPD who may experience shortness of breath or other mobility issues.

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches**

Identifying any standout primary care practices in the area is vital. These practices might demonstrate exemplary COPD management through various means. For example, some practices may have a dedicated COPD management program, offering specialized education, pulmonary function testing, and personalized care plans. They might also collaborate with pulmonary specialists or respiratory therapists to provide comprehensive care. Examining the practices' use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to share patient information seamlessly between providers is also important. EHRs facilitate better care coordination and can improve patient outcomes.

Reviews and testimonials from patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by different practices. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can offer a glimpse into patient experiences, highlighting strengths and weaknesses of various practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address the geographical challenges of rural healthcare. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education, can significantly improve access to care for COPD patients in Knotts Island.

Assessing the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine is crucial. Do physicians offer virtual appointments for follow-up visits or medication management? Do they utilize remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters or peak flow meters, to track patients' lung function at home? The availability of telehealth services can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving patients time and travel expenses while allowing for more frequent monitoring of their condition.

**Mental Health Resources: An Often-Overlooked Aspect**

COPD can have a significant impact on mental health. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations it imposes, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources in Knotts Island is therefore an essential component of the COPD score.

Are there mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers, practicing in the area? Do primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists? Access to mental health support is crucial for helping COPD patients cope with the emotional challenges of their condition and improve their overall quality of life.

**Specifics and Data Acquisition**

This analysis requires specific data acquisition. The following steps are essential:

1. **Physician Directory Search:** Identify all PCPs practicing within ZIP Code 27950 and the surrounding areas.
2. **Population Data:** Obtain the most recent population estimates for the service area of ZIP Code 27950.
3. **Practice Research:** Investigate the services offered by each practice, including COPD management programs, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health integration.
4. **Patient Reviews:** Analyze patient reviews from online platforms to gauge patient satisfaction and identify strengths and weaknesses of each practice.
5. **Telemedicine Availability:** Determine which practices offer telemedicine services and the types of services available.
6. **Mental Health Resource Inventory:** Identify mental health professionals and services available in the area.

**Conclusion**

The COPD score for Knotts Island, NC (ZIP Code 27950) will be determined by assessing these factors. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. A higher score indicates better access to care and a more supportive healthcare environment for individuals with COPD. A lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed.

For a comprehensive, data-driven visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Knotts Island and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice details, and service availability, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Their mapping solutions can provide valuable insights and aid in understanding the healthcare resources available in your community.