27962, Plymouth, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27962, Plymouth, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.14 percent of the residents in 27962 has some form of health insurance. 44.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.67 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 27962 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,760 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27962. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,340 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 276 health care providers accessible to residents in 27962, Plymouth, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Plymouth, NC (ZIP Code 27962)

Plymouth, North Carolina, nestled in Washington County, presents a unique challenge when considering the management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis aims to provide a COPD Score assessment for physicians within the 27962 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability and resources crucial for effective COPD care. This assessment will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, the prominence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health support, all critical components for patients navigating the complexities of COPD.

The foundation of effective COPD management lies within accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Plymouth, and Washington County more broadly, is a significant factor. A lower ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally translates to greater appointment availability, reduced wait times, and more personalized care. Conversely, a higher ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, less frequent follow-up appointments, and decreased time spent per patient. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Census Bureau, provides the necessary information to calculate this ratio. An analysis of these figures is essential for understanding the baseline level of access to care.

Identifying standout practices within the 27962 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating factors such as the number of board-certified pulmonologists or primary care physicians with specialized COPD training. Practices that have implemented comprehensive COPD management programs, including pulmonary rehabilitation, smoking cessation support, and patient education initiatives, are highly valued. Reviews from patients, both online and through local community feedback, offer insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience. Practices that actively engage in research or participate in clinical trials related to COPD management further demonstrate a commitment to advancing patient care.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve COPD management, particularly in rural areas like Plymouth. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be challenging for individuals with breathing difficulties. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management. The availability of telehealth services offered by primary care practices within the 27962 ZIP code is a crucial component of the COPD Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring devices, are better positioned to provide accessible and convenient care.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the integration of mental health resources. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. The COPD Score will assess the availability of these resources within the Plymouth community. This includes the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, referrals to mental health specialists, and the availability of support groups specifically for individuals with COPD. The integration of mental health services is a critical factor in ensuring holistic patient care.

The COPD Score for physicians in 27962 will be a composite score based on these key factors. The scoring methodology will weigh each factor based on its relative importance in effective COPD management. For instance, physician-to-patient ratios and the presence of board-certified specialists might carry a higher weight than the availability of telemedicine, although telemedicine is still important. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality and accessibility of COPD care in Plymouth.

The availability of primary care within Plymouth is paramount. The COPD Score will consider the number of primary care physicians accepting new patients, the average wait times for appointments, and the breadth of services offered, such as on-site diagnostic testing. A robust primary care infrastructure is essential for early diagnosis, ongoing management, and coordination of care for COPD patients. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can provide valuable support in managing chronic conditions, will also be factored into the assessment.

The assessment of standout practices will involve a review of practice websites, patient reviews, and information obtained from local healthcare organizations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offer comprehensive COPD management programs, and actively engage in quality improvement initiatives will receive higher scores. The COPD Score will also consider the practice's use of electronic health records and its ability to share patient information with other healthcare providers, facilitating seamless care coordination.

The evaluation of telemedicine adoption will focus on the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of patient portals for communication and medication management. Practices that have implemented these technologies will be recognized for their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The score will also consider the practice's ability to provide technical support to patients who may be unfamiliar with telemedicine technologies.

The assessment of mental health resources will involve identifying mental health professionals who are integrated within primary care practices, as well as referrals to external mental health specialists. The availability of support groups, educational materials, and resources for managing anxiety and depression will also be considered. The COPD Score will recognize practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients and provide comprehensive support.

In conclusion, the COPD Score analysis for physicians in ZIP Code 27962 provides a valuable assessment of the resources available for COPD management in Plymouth, North Carolina. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the prominence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, patients and healthcare providers can make informed decisions and work together to improve the quality of care for individuals living with COPD.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Plymouth and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and community health services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.