28467, Calabash, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28467, Calabash, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 28467 has some form of health insurance. 57.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.44 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 28467 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,092 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28467. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,957 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,139 health care providers accessible to residents in 28467, Calabash, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Calabash, NC (ZIP Code 28467)

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management in Calabash, North Carolina (ZIP code 28467) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key aspects impacting COPD patients, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, offering a comprehensive ‘COPD Score’ assessment. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.

The foundation of any COPD care system is access to primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, generally, a ratio of primary care physicians per 1,000 residents is a benchmark. A higher ratio suggests better access. Information on the specific physician-to-patient ratio for Calabash requires local data. However, we can infer from regional trends. Rural areas often face shortages compared to urban centers. This may lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized COPD care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Assessing this involves examining factors such as the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of specialized equipment like pulmonary function testing (PFT) machines, and the adoption of evidence-based COPD management protocols. Practices that proactively offer smoking cessation programs, provide patient education materials, and maintain close communication with pulmonologists demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care. Identifying standout practices involves reviewing online patient reviews, consulting with local healthcare organizations, and potentially analyzing data on patient outcomes.

Telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to improve COPD care, especially in rural areas. Remote monitoring of patients' vital signs, virtual consultations with physicians, and access to online educational resources can empower patients to manage their condition more effectively. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and symptom monitoring likely receive a higher COPD score. Conversely, practices lacking these capabilities may struggle to provide the same level of care to patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities.

COPD often co-exists with mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. These conditions can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and their ability to adhere to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a robust COPD care system. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of COPD patients. The absence of these resources can negatively affect the COPD score.

The specific COPD score for doctors in ZIP code 28467 would be a composite metric. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices (including the presence of specialized equipment and adherence to best practices), the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor would be weighted based on its relative importance in influencing patient outcomes. For example, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio and limited telemedicine capabilities, but strong mental health support, would likely receive a moderate score. A practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, advanced telemedicine, and comprehensive mental health services would achieve a higher score.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Calabash, NC, requires a thorough assessment of the healthcare landscape. This includes identifying the number of primary care physicians practicing in the area, the types of services offered, and the availability of specialized care. A practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio would be considered a positive factor. The presence of board-certified physicians and the availability of specialized equipment, such as pulmonary function testing machines, are also important. Practices that offer smoking cessation programs and patient education materials would also contribute to a higher COPD score.

The analysis should also consider the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Calabash. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and symptom monitoring would receive a higher score. The integration of mental health resources into primary care is also crucial. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals would receive a higher score.

In conclusion, the ‘COPD Score’ for Calabash, NC, is a multifaceted assessment reflecting the accessibility and quality of COPD care. While the specific score requires detailed local data, the analysis framework provides a clear understanding of the key factors influencing patient outcomes. Improving the ‘COPD Score’ involves addressing physician shortages, enhancing practice quality, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health resources. This comprehensive approach is essential to ensuring that COPD patients in Calabash receive the best possible care.

To visualize the distribution of primary care physicians, assess accessibility, and identify areas with unmet needs, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape of Calabash and surrounding areas.