28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.73 percent of the residents in 28445 has some form of health insurance. 29.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.14 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 28445 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,928 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28445. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,568 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 781 health care providers accessible to residents in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care in Holly Ridge (ZIP Code 28445)

This analysis delves into the primary care landscape within ZIP Code 28445 (Holly Ridge, North Carolina), focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). We assess the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care, and the integration of resources crucial for COPD management, ultimately providing a “COPD Score” assessment. This score is not a definitive ranking but a comprehensive evaluation of the local healthcare ecosystem's strengths and weaknesses in supporting COPD patients.

The foundation of effective COPD care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Holly Ridge, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Publicly available data suggests that the ratio in this area might be strained, potentially indicating a shortage of primary care providers. This could translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and difficulty in establishing a strong doctor-patient relationship – all detrimental to effective COPD management. Increased competition for appointments might also influence the ability of patients to see a specialist.

A crucial aspect of COPD care is the ability of primary care physicians to provide comprehensive care, including early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and effective management of exacerbations. The "COPD Score" considers the availability of diagnostic tools within primary care practices, such as spirometry, a vital test for assessing lung function. Furthermore, the score evaluates the extent to which practices actively participate in COPD education programs, offering patients resources to understand their condition and manage it effectively.

The quality of care also hinges on the integration of specialty services. The "COPD Score" assesses the ease of referral to pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. Strong referral networks, efficient communication between primary care physicians and specialists, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs are all positive indicators. These resources are essential for providing specialized care and support for patients with more advanced COPD.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in managing chronic conditions. The "COPD Score" evaluates the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Holly Ridge. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals receive higher scores. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. It also allows for more frequent monitoring and earlier intervention, which can help prevent exacerbations and hospitalizations.

Mental health is often overlooked in COPD management, yet it plays a crucial role in patient well-being. The "COPD Score" considers the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals. Patients with COPD are at a higher risk of depression and anxiety, and access to mental health support is essential for improving their quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive higher scores.

Several practices in Holly Ridge may stand out in providing excellent COPD care. Identifying these "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings. The "COPD Score" would consider factors such as the experience and training of the physicians, the availability of specialized equipment, the implementation of patient-centered care models, and the use of innovative technologies. These practices might be early adopters of telemedicine, have robust patient education programs, or demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement.

The "COPD Score" also considers the availability of resources outside of the primary care setting. This includes the presence of community-based support groups, access to affordable medications, and the availability of respiratory therapists in the area. A well-rounded healthcare ecosystem includes all of these aspects.

The "COPD Score" analysis for Holly Ridge would also factor in the demographics of the population. The prevalence of COPD varies across different demographic groups, and the healthcare system should be equipped to address the specific needs of the local population. Factors such as age, race, and socioeconomic status can influence access to care and the effectiveness of treatment.

The "COPD Score" is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. As new technologies emerge, treatment guidelines are updated, and patient needs change, the "COPD Score" should be reviewed and adjusted accordingly.

The "COPD Score" is designed to be a useful tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can help patients make informed decisions about their care, identify areas for improvement in the local healthcare system, and guide the allocation of resources to improve COPD care in Holly Ridge.

To truly visualize and understand the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and the availability of specialist services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial representation of the healthcare landscape in Holly Ridge, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and pinpoint the locations of key resources.