28504, Kinston, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.10 percent of the residents in 28504 has some form of health insurance. 48.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.50 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 28504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28504. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,529 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 669 health care providers accessible to residents in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28504 and Primary Care in Kinston**

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management, within ZIP code 28504 (Kinston, North Carolina) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective COPD care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'COPD Score' analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access Challenges**

One of the fundamental indicators of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact ratio within ZIP code 28504 requires detailed data that is often difficult to obtain publicly. However, we can infer certain trends. Kinston, as a relatively small city within a larger county (Lenoir County), may face challenges common to rural areas. These include a potential shortage of primary care physicians, particularly those specializing in pulmonary medicine. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially poorer management of chronic conditions like COPD.

The impact of a strained physician-to-patient ratio is amplified for COPD patients. They often require frequent check-ups, medication adjustments, and access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs. A shortage of readily available primary care providers can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment plans, and increased hospitalizations. This underscores the importance of assessing not just the number of physicians, but also their specialties and the availability of supporting services.

**Standout Practices and their Impact**

Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors: patient reviews, accreditation, the presence of specialized equipment (e.g., spirometry), and the availability of ancillary services. Practices demonstrating a commitment to COPD management often prioritize patient education, offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and have established protocols for managing exacerbations.

Practices that actively embrace technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, often improve communication and care coordination. These features allow for better monitoring of patient health, timely medication refills, and easier access to medical information. Furthermore, practices with a multidisciplinary approach, involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and other specialists, tend to provide more comprehensive care.

Assessing the specific practices within 28504, while requiring detailed research, involves scrutinizing their websites, patient reviews, and public health data. The goal is to identify practices that have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in COPD care, providing a benchmark for other providers in the area.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role in COPD Management**

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for improving access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. For COPD patients, telemedicine offers several advantages. It allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication management. This can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be particularly challenging for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities.

The adoption of telemedicine within 28504 is a crucial aspect of the 'COPD Score' analysis. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and telehealth platforms is vital. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more timely and convenient care, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Factors such as internet access within the patient population also play a role in the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

**Mental Health Resources and their Significance**

COPD is not just a physical ailment; it often has a significant impact on mental health. Patients with COPD frequently experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care.

The 'COPD Score' analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the Kinston area. It also includes assessing the availability of support groups, counseling services, and access to mental health medications. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD management programs are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This can lead to improved quality of life, better adherence to treatment plans, and reduced hospitalizations.

**Specific Considerations for 28504**

The specific demographics and socioeconomic factors of 28504 must be considered. The prevalence of COPD may be higher in certain populations due to factors like smoking history, exposure to environmental pollutants, and access to healthcare. Addressing these factors requires a nuanced understanding of the local community.

The analysis should also consider the presence of community health centers, free clinics, and other resources that provide care to underserved populations. Collaboration between primary care providers, specialists, and community organizations is crucial for ensuring equitable access to COPD care.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action with CartoChrome Maps**

This 'COPD Score' analysis, though limited by the scope of publicly available information, provides a framework for assessing the quality and accessibility of COPD care within ZIP code 28504. The analysis highlights the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, the need for standout practices, the potential of telemedicine, and the critical role of mental health resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kinston and to visualize the data discussed, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, patient demographics, and resource availability, offering a powerful tool for identifying areas of need and optimizing healthcare delivery. Visit CartoChrome to explore how mapping can enhance your understanding of healthcare access and improve patient outcomes.