28449, Kure Beach, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28449, Kure Beach, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.61 percent of the residents in 28449 has some form of health insurance. 23.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.64 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 28449 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 311 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 14 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28449. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,264 health care providers accessible to residents in 28449, Kure Beach, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28449 & Primary Care Availability in Kure Beach

Analyzing the availability and quality of COPD care within ZIP code 28449, encompassing Kure Beach, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in managing a chronic respiratory condition like COPD. This analysis will provide a "COPD Score" assessment, aiming to gauge the overall strength of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in this specific locale.

The foundation of any COPD care assessment lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. Kure Beach, being a relatively small coastal community, likely experiences a fluctuating population due to seasonal tourism. This creates a dynamic that impacts the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), the first point of contact for COPD patients. A low PCP-to-patient ratio, especially for those over 65 (the demographic most susceptible to COPD), raises concerns about timely access to appointments, preventative care, and ongoing management. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board would be essential to ascertain the exact ratio. However, the inherent challenge of a small, seasonal population suggests that this ratio might be less favorable compared to larger, more densely populated areas.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly influences the COPD Score. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors. These include the physicians' experience and specialization, their commitment to evidence-based COPD management guidelines, and the availability of comprehensive diagnostic tools such as spirometry. Practices that actively participate in COPD education programs, offer patient support groups, and demonstrate a proactive approach to managing exacerbations would be considered high-performing. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and physician profiles (available through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals) would provide valuable insights. Furthermore, assessing whether practices are affiliated with larger healthcare systems (e.g., Novant Health, New Hanover Regional Medical Center) could indicate access to broader resources and specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. COPD patients, often experiencing mobility limitations or residing in remote areas, benefit immensely from virtual consultations. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and regular check-ins without the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices in Kure Beach that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring tools, would receive a higher score. This also includes the availability of telehealth services through larger healthcare systems that serve the area. The ability to access these services can greatly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health is also crucial in the COPD Score. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is paramount. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors who understand the psychological challenges associated with chronic respiratory illnesses. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their routine COPD care, offer referrals to mental health professionals, or provide on-site counseling services would be highly valued. Furthermore, access to support groups, either in-person or online, can provide invaluable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning opportunities.

To develop a comprehensive COPD Score, each of these factors would be weighted based on their relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and the presence of standout practices might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, though the latter is increasingly important. The final score would then reflect the overall strength of the healthcare infrastructure for COPD patients in Kure Beach.

Specifically, the analysis would need to delve into the following:

* **Physician Directory:** Compile a list of all PCPs, pulmonologists, and other relevant specialists practicing within ZIP code 28449 or readily accessible to its residents.
* **Practice Profiles:** Gather information on each practice, including physician credentials, services offered (spirometry, pulmonary rehabilitation, etc.), insurance accepted, and patient reviews.
* **Telemedicine Capabilities:** Determine which practices offer telemedicine services, the platforms used, and the types of virtual consultations available.
* **Mental Health Integration:** Assess the availability of mental health resources, including referrals, on-site counseling, and support groups.
* **Community Resources:** Identify any local COPD support groups, educational programs, or community health initiatives.

Based on this information, a numerical score could be assigned, providing a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in Kure Beach. The score would serve as a valuable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare providers looking to improve their services, and policymakers aiming to address healthcare disparities. The score could also be used to track progress over time, identifying areas of improvement and highlighting best practices.

Ultimately, the COPD Score for Kure Beach would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of COPD patients. It would be a snapshot in time, providing a valuable assessment of the available resources and their accessibility.

To fully visualize the data and understand the geographical distribution of these resources, consider exploring the power of interactive maps.
**Click here to explore the healthcare landscape of Kure Beach and beyond with CartoChrome maps!**