27966, Powells Point, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 27966, Powells Point, North Carolina is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.66 percent of the residents in 27966 has some form of health insurance. 40.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.84 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 27966 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 414 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27966. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 118 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 753 health care providers accessible to residents in 27966, Powells Point, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Powells Point, NC (ZIP Code 27966)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within the Powells Point, North Carolina ZIP code of 27966 requires a nuanced approach. This analysis focuses on key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice performance, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive COPD care model. The goal is to provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

One of the fundamental metrics in assessing healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) within a specific ZIP code presents challenges due to data limitations. However, we can extrapolate based on county-level data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and national averages. Currituck County, where Powells Point is located, may experience a lower physician-to-population ratio compared to more urban areas. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized care, impacting COPD patients who require regular monitoring and management. The availability of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is also a critical factor. The presence of pulmonologists within a reasonable travel distance is vital for timely diagnosis, treatment adjustments, and management of exacerbations.

Evaluating the performance of individual primary care practices within 27966 requires analyzing several factors. While specific practice-level data is often proprietary, publicly available resources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) data, patient reviews, and health insurance provider directories can provide insights. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management often implement evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). These practices may have dedicated COPD care programs, including patient education, smoking cessation support, and regular pulmonary function testing (PFT). Furthermore, practices with a strong focus on preventative care, such as flu and pneumonia vaccinations, are particularly beneficial for COPD patients, who are more susceptible to respiratory infections.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Powells Point. Telemedicine offers several advantages for COPD patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations with physicians, and access to specialist care without the need for travel. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of frequent office visits. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offer remote monitoring devices (e.g., pulse oximeters), and provide virtual support groups are likely to provide a higher level of COPD care. The integration of telemedicine into the care model can also improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce hospital readmissions.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD care, but they are essential. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, within the community or through telehealth services is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their COPD care programs are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is ideal for providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. Access to support groups and educational resources focused on managing the emotional aspects of COPD can also improve patient outcomes.

Identifying "standout" practices requires a combination of factors. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize evidence-based guidelines, and actively integrate telemedicine and mental health resources are likely to be considered leaders in COPD management. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments for acute exacerbations, and readily accessible patient education materials are also highly valued. The presence of a dedicated COPD nurse or respiratory therapist within the practice can significantly enhance the quality of care. Patient testimonials and positive reviews are also indicative of a practice's commitment to providing high-quality care.

The overall assessment for COPD care in Powells Point, NC, suggests both strengths and areas for improvement. The rural nature of the area may pose challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized services. However, practices that actively embrace technology, integrate mental health resources, and prioritize patient education can significantly improve the quality of care. Continuous efforts to enhance physician-to-patient ratios, expand telemedicine capabilities, and promote collaboration between healthcare providers are crucial for optimizing COPD care in this community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Powells Point and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a valuable tool for visualizing physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, enabling a more informed assessment of healthcare access and resource allocation.