28538, Hookerton, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28538, Hookerton, North Carolina is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.73 percent of the residents in 28538 has some form of health insurance. 37.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.95 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 28538 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 551 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28538. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 336 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,034 health care providers accessible to residents in 28538, Hookerton, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Hookerton, NC (ZIP Code 28538)

Analyzing the landscape of COPD care in Hookerton, North Carolina, (ZIP Code 28538) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves assessing the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage COPD patients, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all within the context of a specific geographic area. This analysis, presented as a 'COPD Score' assessment, attempts to paint a comprehensive picture.

The foundation of COPD care lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Hookerton, the physician-to-patient ratio becomes a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate follow-up care, and increased hospital readmissions for COPD patients. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for more proactive management and improved patient outcomes. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 28538 is the first step. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board or the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from local healthcare providers, can provide this critical baseline.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care offered by primary care physicians is paramount. This involves evaluating their experience and training in managing COPD, their adherence to established clinical guidelines (such as those from the GOLD initiative), and their use of evidence-based treatments. Key indicators include the frequency of spirometry testing, the prescription rates of appropriate medications (bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids), and the implementation of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Information on these factors can be gleaned through practice websites, patient reviews (while subjective, they offer insights), and, ideally, through aggregated data from insurance providers or healthcare quality reporting systems.

Identifying standout practices within Hookerton is essential. These are the clinics and individual physicians who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in COPD care. They may be characterized by a proactive approach to patient education, a strong focus on preventative measures (such as smoking cessation programs), and a well-coordinated care team, including nurses, respiratory therapists, and potentially, pulmonologists. These practices might also be early adopters of innovative technologies or have established strong relationships with local hospitals and specialists. Recognizing these practices allows patients to make informed choices and highlights areas where other providers can learn and improve.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas like Hookerton. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and facilitate remote monitoring of COPD symptoms. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration in Hookerton involves determining which primary care practices offer telehealth consultations, remote patient monitoring, or virtual support groups. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is another crucial factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine implementation. Practices utilizing telehealth can potentially improve patient outcomes and reduce the strain on the local healthcare system.

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive COPD care plan. Evaluating this aspect requires assessing the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in Hookerton and the ease with which patients can access these services. Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers? Are mental health services covered by local insurance plans? Are there support groups or educational programs available for COPD patients struggling with mental health issues? Addressing these questions is vital for ensuring holistic patient care.

The COPD Score for Hookerton, NC (28538) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A low score might indicate limited access to care, inadequate management of COPD, and a lack of support for patients. Conversely, a high score would reflect a robust healthcare system, with readily available primary care, integrated telemedicine, and comprehensive mental health support.

A comprehensive COPD Score analysis should consider the demographics of the population in 28538. The prevalence of COPD, smoking rates, and socioeconomic factors can all influence the demand for healthcare services and the effectiveness of interventions. Data on these factors, obtained from sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, can provide valuable context for interpreting the COPD Score.

The process of gathering and analyzing the data necessary to create a COPD Score is complex. It requires accessing and synthesizing information from various sources. It involves identifying and contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing publicly available data, and potentially conducting surveys or interviews with patients and healthcare professionals. The resulting analysis provides a valuable snapshot of the COPD care landscape in Hookerton.

Ultimately, the goal of a COPD Score analysis is to identify areas for improvement and to inform strategies for enhancing COPD care in Hookerton. This could involve advocating for increased access to primary care, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, or supporting the development of mental health services. It can also guide patients in making informed decisions about their healthcare.

For a visual representation of the COPD care landscape in Hookerton, including the location of primary care practices, the availability of resources, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help visualize the data, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment and aiding in the development of targeted interventions.