28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.85 percent of the residents in 28469 has some form of health insurance. 53.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.13 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 28469 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 620 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28469. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,268 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,228 health care providers accessible to residents in 28469, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Ocean Isle Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28469)

Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, a coastal community known for its relaxed atmosphere, presents a unique healthcare landscape, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on factors relevant to COPD management, within the 28469 ZIP code. The goal is to provide an actionable 'COPD Score' perspective for residents and healthcare providers.

The foundation of effective COPD management rests on accessible and quality primary care. In Ocean Isle Beach, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, this area, like many coastal communities, may experience seasonal population shifts, impacting the perceived availability of primary care physicians. Increased seasonal residents can strain existing resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced physician availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Within the 28469 ZIP code, the presence of established primary care practices is significant. The reputation and expertise of these practices vary, with some potentially demonstrating a stronger focus on respiratory health. Assessing the specific COPD management protocols, including the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFTs), smoking cessation programs, and patient education materials, is crucial. Practices with dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses specializing in COPD care would naturally score higher. The integration of these specialized services significantly improves patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption represents a vital aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in areas where access to in-person care might be limited. The extent to which local primary care practices in Ocean Isle Beach utilize telemedicine for COPD management is a key factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs, providing ongoing support and reducing the need for frequent office visits, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing further from the clinic.

Mental health considerations are inextricably linked to COPD management. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with its impact on breathing and daily activities, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within or readily accessible to the primary care practices in Ocean Isle Beach, is therefore critical. Practices that integrate mental health screening and treatment options, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, are better equipped to provide holistic care.

The 'COPD Score' for Ocean Isle Beach, NC (28469) is ultimately a composite assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and specialization of primary care practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a robust healthcare environment with readily available, high-quality primary care, including specialized COPD management services, telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health support. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing physician availability, enhancing COPD-specific services, expanding telemedicine options, and strengthening mental health support.

Standout practices in Ocean Isle Beach, if any, would be those that demonstrate a comprehensive approach to COPD care. This includes not only readily available primary care physicians but also a commitment to proactive patient education, regular monitoring, and the integration of evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices actively involved in community outreach, patient support groups, or smoking cessation programs would further enhance their COPD Score.

The challenges in Ocean Isle Beach may involve geographical limitations. The location of the area, while desirable for its beauty, can pose challenges to healthcare access. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, may be limited. The ability of primary care physicians to coordinate care with specialists in nearby cities is therefore essential. The efficiency of referral processes and the availability of transportation options for patients are crucial factors.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic demographics of the area should be considered. Factors like insurance coverage, income levels, and access to transportation can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and adhere to COPD treatment plans. Practices that are sensitive to these socioeconomic factors and provide assistance with medication costs or transportation needs would contribute to a higher COPD Score.

Ultimately, improving the 'COPD Score' in Ocean Isle Beach requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves not only strengthening the primary care infrastructure but also fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, promoting patient education and self-management, and addressing the social determinants of health. The integration of technology, such as telemedicine and remote monitoring devices, can play a vital role in improving access to care and enhancing patient outcomes.

The availability of specific COPD-related resources, such as support groups, educational materials, and smoking cessation programs, also impacts the score. Practices that actively promote these resources and collaborate with community organizations to provide them would be seen more favorably. The ability to provide these resources in a variety of formats, including online and in-person, further enhances their accessibility.

For a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ocean Isle Beach, including the specific locations of primary care practices, their services, and their telemedicine capabilities, we recommend exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their detailed visualizations can provide invaluable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, helping residents make informed decisions about their care and empowering healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement.