28412, Wilmington, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.33 percent of the residents in 28412 has some form of health insurance. 33.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.15 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 28412 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,627 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28412. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,928 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28412) & Primary Care

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their capacity to serve patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within Wilmington, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 28412 ZIP code. The evaluation considers factors crucial to COPD management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a "COPD Score" understanding, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests upon accessible and qualified primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio within 28412 is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, data suggests a potential strain on primary care resources in Wilmington. A higher patient-to-physician ratio can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient during consultations, and potentially, a compromised ability for proactive COPD management. This necessitates a closer look at the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code and their individual patient loads.

The availability of specialists, especially pulmonologists, is also vital. A strong network between PCPs and pulmonologists is essential for timely referrals, specialist consultations, and coordinated care plans. The proximity of specialist services to the 28412 area, and the ease with which PCPs can access these specialists, will significantly impact the overall COPD score.

Beyond mere numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices themselves influence the quality of COPD care. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination, are likely to perform better. These systems streamline medication management, track patient progress, and facilitate communication between different healthcare providers. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, such as those provided by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), is another indicator of quality.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool, especially for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Its integration within primary care practices in 28412 is a crucial component of the COPD score. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of patients, virtual consultations, medication adjustments, and educational support. Practices that offer telemedicine options can extend their reach, improve patient convenience, and potentially reduce hospital readmissions. The availability of telehealth services, coupled with the ease of access for patients, contributes significantly to a higher COPD score.

The complex nature of COPD often necessitates addressing the mental health needs of patients. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is therefore critical. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will significantly improve the COPD score. This integrated approach recognizes the holistic needs of COPD patients, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

Several practices within the 28412 ZIP code may stand out based on these criteria. Identifying these "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles, patient reviews, and publicly available data. These practices might be characterized by a high physician-to-patient ratio, proactive patient education programs, robust telemedicine offerings, and integrated mental health services. They serve as models for best practices within the community.

The COPD score for 28412 will also be affected by the accessibility of respiratory therapists and other support services. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, smoking cessation programs, and patient support groups contributes to a comprehensive approach to COPD management. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources enhance their ability to manage their condition effectively.

Furthermore, community-based initiatives and partnerships can positively influence the COPD score. Collaborations between primary care practices, hospitals, and community organizations can improve patient education, promote early detection, and enhance access to care. These collaborative efforts can create a more supportive environment for individuals living with COPD.

In conclusion, the COPD score for doctors in the 28412 ZIP code and primary care availability in Wilmington is a multifaceted assessment. It considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the availability of support services. While a precise numerical score would require a comprehensive data analysis, this assessment highlights the key factors that determine the quality of COPD care in the area. The presence of a strong primary care foundation, coupled with innovative approaches like telemedicine and integrated mental health services, will determine the overall success of COPD management within the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of primary care practices, specialist locations, and other relevant healthcare resources within the 28412 ZIP code, we invite you to explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington.