28401, Wilmington, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28401, Wilmington, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.39 percent of the residents in 28401 has some form of health insurance. 44.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.42 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 28401 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,217 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28401. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,583 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,819 health care providers accessible to residents in 28401, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28401)

This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 28401 ZIP code in Wilmington, North Carolina, focusing on factors crucial for effective COPD management. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all vital components of comprehensive COPD care. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for COPD patients and their families.

The foundation of effective COPD care lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio within 28401 is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more personalized and proactive management. Researching the specific ratio within this ZIP code is the first step. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and publicly available health datasets would provide the raw numbers needed to begin the assessment.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of individual practices significantly impact COPD care quality. Practices with a dedicated focus on respiratory health, for example, may employ specialized nurses or respiratory therapists. These professionals can provide crucial patient education, medication management support, and pulmonary rehabilitation services. Practices that actively participate in COPD-specific quality improvement initiatives or have a track record of positive patient outcomes would also score higher. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as spirometry testing, streamlines the diagnostic and monitoring process, leading to faster interventions.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in COPD management, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication refills, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. Telemedicine allows physicians to monitor patients' symptoms remotely, adjust medications as needed, and provide timely interventions, potentially preventing exacerbations and hospitalizations. The adoption of telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered virtually, and the ease of access for patients will all be crucial factors in the COPD Score assessment.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks is therefore essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening into routine visits, offer on-site counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health professionals will receive a higher score. This integrated approach recognizes the holistic needs of COPD patients and promotes overall well-being.

Identifying standout practices within 28401 requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. This involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the availability of specialized services, and evaluating the integration of technology. Practices with consistently positive patient feedback, a commitment to continuing medical education in COPD management, and a proactive approach to patient education and self-management support would stand out. The existence of patient support groups, educational materials, and readily available information about COPD management further enhances the quality of care.

The COPD Score is not simply a numerical ranking but a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare ecosystem. It involves gathering and analyzing data from multiple sources, including public health databases, insurance providers, and patient feedback platforms. The analysis should consider the diversity of the patient population within the 28401 ZIP code, including factors like age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation. This holistic approach ensures that the COPD Score accurately reflects the reality of healthcare access and quality within the community.

The success of COPD management hinges on a collaborative approach. Effective communication and coordination between PCPs, specialists (pulmonologists, cardiologists), and other healthcare providers are essential. Practices that actively participate in care coordination programs, share patient information electronically, and have established referral pathways to specialists will contribute to a higher COPD Score. This collaborative model ensures that patients receive the right care at the right time.

The evaluation of mental health resources requires a careful examination of the available services. This includes assessing the availability of on-site mental health professionals, the ease of access to referrals to specialists, and the integration of mental health screening into routine care. Practices that prioritize mental health support for COPD patients demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care and improve patient outcomes. The presence of educational materials, support groups, and readily available information about mental health resources further enhances the quality of care.

The ultimate goal of the COPD Score analysis is to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By providing a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape, patients can choose the providers and practices that best meet their needs. This analysis should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, including the adoption of new technologies, the availability of new treatments, and the evolving needs of the patient population.

This analysis is a starting point for understanding the complexities of COPD care within the 28401 ZIP code. The information gathered from the analysis can be used to identify areas for improvement, highlight best practices, and advocate for policies that support better care for COPD patients. The continuous evaluation and refinement of the COPD Score will ensure that it remains a valuable tool for patients, providers, and policymakers alike.

Are you ready to visualize the healthcare landscape for COPD in Wilmington, NC (28401)? Explore the geographic distribution of resources, physician availability, and more with interactive maps. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your COPD care.**