28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 28512 has some form of health insurance. 50.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.58 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 28512 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 345 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28512. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,409 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,686 health care providers accessible to residents in 28512, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on the quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients within the Atlantic Beach, North Carolina ZIP code 28512, specifically examining the availability and quality of primary care. This assessment considers factors crucial to managing COPD, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. These elements are critical for comprehensive COPD care, as the disease often necessitates a multidisciplinary approach.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Atlantic Beach, while difficult to quantify precisely without access to real-time, comprehensive datasets, likely presents a challenge. Atlantic Beach, being a relatively small coastal community, probably experiences a lower density of primary care physicians compared to more urban areas. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions for COPD patients. The impact is amplified for individuals with exacerbations, who require prompt medical attention. A lower physician density also strains existing resources, impacting the ability of practices to offer comprehensive care, including specialized COPD management programs.

Identifying “standout practices” requires evaluating several key criteria. These include the availability of pulmonologists or primary care physicians with a demonstrated expertise in COPD management. Practices that offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFTs) on-site are highly desirable, as they allow for timely diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression. The presence of respiratory therapists who can provide education on inhaler techniques, breathing exercises, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is another significant indicator of a superior practice. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in COPD research or clinical trials often demonstrate a commitment to staying at the forefront of treatment advancements. While specific practice names are difficult to ascertain without direct access to local data, it's crucial to search for practices that meet these criteria.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly critical in COPD management, especially in areas with limited access to in-person care. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of patients' symptoms. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in geographically isolated areas or have mobility limitations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as pulse oximeters and peak flow meters, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine by providing real-time data to physicians. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to provide accessible and timely care to COPD patients in Atlantic Beach.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but vital aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices that recognize and address these mental health concerns are essential. This includes offering on-site mental health services, such as counseling or therapy, or establishing strong referral networks with mental health professionals. Practices that screen patients for depression and anxiety and provide resources for support groups or educational programs demonstrate a comprehensive approach to patient well-being. This holistic approach is critical for managing the complex needs of COPD patients.

Analyzing the availability of these resources requires a multi-faceted approach. Online physician directories, insurance provider websites, and patient reviews can provide initial insights into the services offered by local practices. However, a more in-depth assessment would involve direct contact with the practices, inquiring about their COPD management protocols, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support services. Patient advocacy groups and COPD support organizations can also provide valuable information about the quality of care available in the area. It is essential to consider all these factors when evaluating the quality of care for COPD patients in Atlantic Beach.

The overall COPD score for primary care in Atlantic Beach, based on these considerations, is likely to be moderate. The potential limitations in physician density, coupled with the challenges of providing comprehensive care in a smaller community, suggest that access to specialized COPD services may be limited. However, the presence of dedicated physicians and the potential for telemedicine adoption can improve the score. The integration of mental health resources is also crucial. The score will depend on the degree to which practices have embraced these elements.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Atlantic Beach, including the location of primary care practices, the availability of specialized services, and the potential for telemedicine integration, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the distribution of healthcare providers, highlighting areas with limited access to care and identifying potential opportunities for improvement. They can be a valuable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare providers, and policymakers aiming to enhance COPD management in the community.