28349, Kenansville, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28349, Kenansville, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.94 percent of the residents in 28349 has some form of health insurance. 44.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.72 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 28349 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 846 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28349. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 533 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,138 health care providers accessible to residents in 28349, Kenansville, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Kenansville, NC (ZIP Code 28349)

Analyzing the COPD landscape within Kenansville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28349), necessitates a multifaceted approach, examining not only the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility of resources, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. The goal is to provide a COPD Score analysis, evaluating the overall support system for individuals managing this chronic respiratory disease. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized pulmonologists, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests upon accessible primary care. Kenansville, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas. A key factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. National averages provide a benchmark, but the actual ratio in 28349 is crucial. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can illuminate this critical statistic. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the first hurdle.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are PCPs knowledgeable about COPD management? Do they follow current guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and patient education? This involves assessing the practices' adherence to evidence-based practices, their use of spirometry (a key diagnostic tool), and their commitment to patient education regarding medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and exacerbation management. This assessment requires analyzing the available data and consulting with local healthcare professionals.

Specialized pulmonologists, experts in respiratory diseases, play a vital role in complex COPD cases. Their availability within or near Kenansville significantly impacts the quality of care. While PCPs manage the majority of COPD cases, pulmonologists are crucial for accurate diagnosis, advanced treatment options (including pulmonary rehabilitation), and managing severe exacerbations. The presence of a pulmonologist within a reasonable distance (e.g., a 30-60 minute drive) improves access to specialized care and contributes to a better COPD score. The absence or scarcity of these specialists would negatively impact the overall score.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, offers a potential solution to access challenges, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in 28349 is a significant factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of patients' respiratory function. Practices utilizing telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and enhance the frequency of follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services, specifically those geared toward COPD management, can positively influence the COPD score.

Mental health considerations are integral to effective COPD management. Living with a chronic respiratory condition can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and offer referrals to mental health professionals demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The presence of these resources, or a clear pathway to access them, directly impacts the COPD score.

Evaluating standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves identifying practices that excel in specific areas, such as patient education, care coordination, or the use of innovative technologies. Practices that actively engage in patient education programs, offer individualized care plans, and utilize patient portals for communication and medication refills are likely to provide superior care. This analysis involves reviewing patient testimonials, assessing practice websites, and potentially conducting interviews with local healthcare providers.

The overall COPD score for 28349 will be determined by weighing these factors. A higher score would indicate a robust healthcare system that provides accessible, high-quality COPD care. This would include a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care physicians knowledgeable in COPD management, access to pulmonologists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A lower score would indicate areas for improvement, such as a shortage of physicians, limited access to specialists, or a lack of support for mental health needs.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors of the community. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited health literacy can all exacerbate the challenges of managing COPD. Practices that are sensitive to these factors and provide culturally competent care will contribute to a higher COPD score.

Finally, the analysis should be dynamic. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and the COPD score should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the arrival of new physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date assessment of the COPD landscape in Kenansville.

Understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources is also crucial. To visualize the distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, and to understand their proximity to the patient population, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools like CartoChrome.