28520, Cedar Island, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28520, Cedar Island, North Carolina is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.73 percent of the residents in 28520 has some form of health insurance. 49.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.74 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 28520 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28520. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 88 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 43 health care providers accessible to residents in 28520, Cedar Island, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28520 and Primary Care Availability in Cedar Island

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services, specifically focusing on their relevance to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within ZIP Code 28520, encompassing Cedar Island, North Carolina. The goal is to assess the "COPD Score" – a composite metric reflecting access to care, physician capabilities, and supportive resources – for individuals in this geographically isolated area. This evaluation considers factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician density, specialized expertise, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all of which significantly impact patient outcomes.

The primary care landscape in Cedar Island, and the broader 28520 ZIP code, presents unique challenges. The area's relative remoteness, coupled with a potentially aging population, likely contributes to a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban centers. This scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the COPD Score. A lower ratio means fewer physicians available to manage the chronic disease, leading to potential delays in diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing monitoring. This can result in more frequent exacerbations, hospitalizations, and a diminished quality of life for COPD patients.

Determining a definitive physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing real-time data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, based on general demographic trends and the geographic isolation of Cedar Island, it's reasonable to assume a ratio that may be less favorable than the state or national averages. This lower ratio immediately lowers the COPD Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the expertise of the available physicians is critical. Ideally, the primary care physicians in 28520 should possess a strong understanding of COPD management, including familiarity with current guidelines, medication protocols, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The presence of physicians with board certifications in internal medicine or family medicine, with additional training or experience in pulmonology, would significantly elevate the COPD Score. Their ability to diagnose and treat COPD effectively, and to recognize and manage complications, is essential.

Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, within a reasonable travel distance is a crucial factor. While Cedar Island might not have a pulmonologist physically located within the community, the proximity to specialists in larger towns like Morehead City or New Bern becomes essential. The ease of access to these specialists, whether through direct referrals or telemedicine consultations, directly influences the COPD Score. Delays in accessing specialized care can negatively impact patient outcomes, particularly during acute exacerbations.

The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 28520 significantly impacts the COPD Score. Telemedicine offers a vital bridge, especially in rural areas, enabling patients to receive consultations, medication management, and even remote monitoring of their lung function. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine, providing virtual visits and remote patient monitoring, can improve access to care, reduce the need for travel, and enhance the overall quality of COPD management. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are also a critical component of the COPD Score. COPD can have a profound impact on mental well-being, often leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who are familiar with the psychological aspects of chronic respiratory illness is crucial. Integration of mental health services into primary care practices, or readily available referral pathways to mental health providers, enhances the COPD Score. This holistic approach addresses the complex needs of COPD patients, improving their overall quality of life.

Identifying standout practices within 28520 is crucial. These practices might demonstrate a commitment to COPD management through various means: a focus on patient education, robust care coordination, active participation in COPD-related research, or a strong emphasis on preventative care. Practices that offer structured COPD education programs, provide access to pulmonary rehabilitation, and utilize patient portals for communication and medication management would be highly valued. These practices contribute significantly to a higher COPD Score.

Assessing the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is another key factor. Pulmonary rehabilitation, which includes exercise training, education, and support, is a cornerstone of COPD management. The presence of these programs, either within the primary care practice or at a nearby facility, is essential for improving lung function, reducing symptoms, and enhancing the patient's ability to perform daily activities. The accessibility and quality of these programs directly influence the COPD Score.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for doctors in ZIP Code 28520, and specifically the primary care availability in Cedar Island, is likely influenced by several interconnected factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the expertise of the available physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of pulmonary rehabilitation programs all contribute to the overall score. Due to the area's rural nature, overcoming geographical challenges and ensuring access to high-quality, comprehensive COPD care requires a multifaceted approach.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within 28520, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the healthcare landscape, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of access to care and identifying areas of need. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain valuable insights into the healthcare dynamics of Cedar Island and the surrounding area.