28443, Hampstead, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28443, Hampstead, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.80 percent of the residents in 28443 has some form of health insurance. 30.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.26 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 28443 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,355 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28443. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,323 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,476 health care providers accessible to residents in 28443, Hampstead, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Hampstead, NC (ZIP Code 28443)

Analyzing the COPD landscape in Hampstead, North Carolina (ZIP code 28443) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the presence of primary care physicians but also their capacity to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive COPD care strategy.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Hampstead, the ratio of primary care physicians to the overall population, and specifically to the elderly population (a demographic at higher risk for COPD), is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for more proactive management of COPD. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau is essential to accurately determine this ratio. We need to know the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the 28443 ZIP code, and the age distribution of the population.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their resources and commitment to COPD management. This includes examining their staff training in COPD diagnosis and treatment, the availability of spirometry (a key diagnostic tool), and their participation in COPD-specific programs. Practices that actively engage in patient education, offer smoking cessation support, and collaborate with pulmonologists demonstrate a higher level of care. Furthermore, the practices’ acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is crucial for ensuring access to care for all residents, especially those with fixed incomes or pre-existing conditions.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide educational resources online can significantly improve COPD management, particularly for those with mobility limitations or living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine offer advantages like reduced travel time, increased patient convenience, and the potential for more frequent monitoring of symptoms. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of platforms used and the frequency of virtual appointments, provides a clearer picture of access to care.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health is critical. COPD can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore an essential component of a comprehensive COPD care plan. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling, or have established referral networks to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Evaluating the accessibility of these resources, including the availability of appointments and insurance coverage, is crucial.

The specific practices within 28443 require individual evaluation. While a comprehensive list is beyond the scope of this analysis, a hypothetical example could illustrate the assessment process. Consider “Coastal Primary Care.” To evaluate this practice, we'd need to research: the number of primary care physicians on staff, the availability of spirometry testing, their adherence to COPD guidelines (e.g., GOLD guidelines), the availability of smoking cessation programs, and their utilization of telemedicine for COPD management. We would also need to know if they have mental health services or referral programs. This detailed information would be crucial to assigning a COPD score.

Another practice, “Hampstead Family Medicine,” might have a different profile. Perhaps they have a slightly lower physician-to-patient ratio but excel in patient education materials and have strong partnerships with local pulmonologists. Their COPD score would reflect these strengths and weaknesses. The COPD score, therefore, would be a composite, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of the practice, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis of the COPD landscape in Hampstead, NC, needs to be dynamic, as resources and practices change. Regular updates are essential to maintain the accuracy and relevance of the COPD score. This could involve ongoing data collection, patient surveys, and regular reviews of practice websites and other information sources.

The data gathered and analyzed could be visualized and presented using various tools. A geographic information system (GIS) could map the location of primary care practices, highlighting those with high COPD scores. This visual representation would allow for easy identification of areas with greater access to quality COPD care. The map could also incorporate demographic data, such as the age distribution of the population, to identify areas with a higher need for COPD services.

The development of a comprehensive COPD score for Hampstead, NC, is a complex undertaking, but the benefits are substantial. By providing a clear and objective assessment of the available resources, this analysis can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care, and it can also help healthcare providers identify areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for individuals living with COPD in the Hampstead community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the COPD landscape in Hampstead, NC, and to visualize the data discussed, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear, interactive, and data-driven representation of the key factors influencing COPD care in the area, including physician locations, patient demographics, and resource availability. Visit CartoChrome today to discover the power of data visualization in healthcare.