28511, Atlantic, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.14 percent of the residents in 28511 has some form of health insurance. 52.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.24 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 28511 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 113 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28511. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 59 health care providers accessible to residents in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28511 and Primary Care Availability in Atlantic

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care and associated resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management in Atlantic, specifically focusing on the 28511 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the current landscape, assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive COPD care.

The 28511 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Atlantic, likely faces challenges common to many rural or underserved areas. A critical starting point is understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly impact access to care. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased patient burden, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment for COPD. Data on this ratio should be readily available through state medical boards, local health departments, or national databases like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The analysis must compare this ratio to state and national averages to gauge the severity of any potential shortage.

Identifying standout practices within 28511 is essential. These practices often serve as models for best practices in COPD management. Assessing the quality of care involves evaluating several factors. First, the presence of board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized training in respiratory medicine is crucial. Second, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as spirometry and pulmonary function testing, is a key indicator of a practice's ability to accurately diagnose and monitor COPD. Third, the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols, including medication management, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and smoking cessation support, is essential for optimal patient outcomes. Finally, patient satisfaction surveys and reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in this context. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas with limited access to specialists. For COPD patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires robust internet infrastructure, patient access to technology, and physician training in telemedicine practices. The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine services within 28511, including the types of services offered, the platforms used, and the level of patient and physician participation.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, yet they are critical. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for addressing these issues. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health services within 28511, including the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services for COPD patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is crucial for providing integrated and holistic care.

Furthermore, the analysis must examine the availability of ancillary services that support COPD management. This includes access to respiratory therapists, who provide education and support on breathing techniques and medication management. It also includes access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which offer supervised exercise and education to improve lung function and quality of life. The availability of smoking cessation programs is also crucial, as smoking is a major risk factor for COPD.

The analysis should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population within 28511. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of smoking can significantly impact the prevalence and severity of COPD. Understanding these demographics is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community.

Finally, the analysis should assess the coordination of care among different healthcare providers. Effective COPD management requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving primary care physicians, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists. The analysis should evaluate the extent to which these providers collaborate to ensure seamless care for patients. This includes assessing the use of electronic health records, shared care plans, and regular communication between providers.

In conclusion, evaluating the COPD care landscape within 28511 and Atlantic requires a comprehensive assessment of several key factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the coordination of care all play a crucial role in determining the quality and accessibility of care for COPD patients. A thorough analysis of these factors is essential for identifying areas for improvement and for developing strategies to enhance COPD management in this community.

Are you interested in visualizing this data and exploring the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Atlantic? CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for analyzing and understanding the complex factors influencing COPD care. Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.