28516, Beaufort, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.61 percent of the residents in 28516 has some form of health insurance. 48.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.44 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 28516 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,768 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28516. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,476 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,375 health care providers accessible to residents in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care Landscape in Beaufort, NC (ZIP Code 28516)**

The challenge of managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Beaufort, North Carolina, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. This analysis, framed as a 'COPD Score,' assesses the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP code 28516, focusing on factors crucial for COPD patient care. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all of which influence the overall quality of life for individuals grappling with this debilitating respiratory condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially compromised disease management. Within Beaufort, the precise physician-to-patient ratio fluctuates based on data sources and the inclusion criteria (e.g., specialists vs. general practitioners). However, the general trend suggests a potential strain on resources, particularly in primary care. This is a critical consideration for COPD patients who require regular check-ups, medication management, and prompt attention to exacerbations. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability to effectively manage COPD.

Identifying standout practices requires a closer look at specific characteristics. Practices demonstrating a strong commitment to COPD care often possess several key attributes. They may have dedicated respiratory therapists, offer pulmonary function testing (PFT) on-site, and actively participate in COPD-specific educational programs for patients. They may also have established protocols for managing exacerbations, including rapid access to care and clear communication channels. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and interoperability are better equipped to coordinate care and share vital information with specialists and other healthcare providers. Furthermore, the presence of certified COPD educators within a practice is a strong indicator of a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management, which are essential components of effective COPD care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers several advantages for COPD patients, including reduced travel burdens, especially for those with limited mobility or who live in rural areas. It can facilitate remote monitoring of vital signs, enabling early detection of exacerbations and timely interventions. Telemedicine also provides opportunities for virtual consultations with physicians, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals, allowing for ongoing support and education. The extent of telemedicine adoption in Beaufort’s primary care practices is a significant factor in the 'COPD Score.' Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care models are better positioned to provide accessible and convenient care to COPD patients.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked, but it is a vital aspect of COPD management. COPD can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Primary care practices that recognize and address these issues are better equipped to provide holistic care. This may involve screening for mental health conditions, providing access to mental health professionals (either within the practice or through referrals), and incorporating mental health considerations into treatment plans. The availability of these resources is a critical component of the 'COPD Score.' Practices that prioritize mental health support for COPD patients demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care.

Specific examples of practices in Beaufort are difficult to provide without violating privacy regulations. However, a thorough review of practice websites, patient reviews, and publicly available data can offer valuable insights. Look for practices that emphasize COPD management, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support. Practices that are affiliated with larger healthcare systems may have access to a wider range of resources and specialists, which can benefit COPD patients.

The overall 'COPD Score' for primary care availability in Beaufort, NC (ZIP code 28516) is therefore a composite measure. It reflects the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with specialized COPD care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. While the specific score would require a detailed data analysis, the factors outlined here provide a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. Addressing any identified deficiencies is crucial for improving the quality of life for COPD patients in Beaufort.

The assessment of primary care availability is an ongoing process. Healthcare systems and practices are constantly evolving, adapting to new technologies, and responding to changing patient needs. It is essential to regularly review and update the 'COPD Score' to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This involves continuous monitoring of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. It also requires ongoing evaluation of the quality of care provided by individual practices.

This 'COPD Score' analysis provides a snapshot of the primary care landscape in Beaufort, NC. It highlights the key factors that influence the quality of care for COPD patients. It emphasizes the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. By understanding these factors, healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients can work together to improve the care and support available to individuals living with COPD in Beaufort.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Beaufort, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas where access to care may be limited.