28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 56.08 percent of the residents in 28543 has some form of health insurance. 8.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.72 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 28543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,629 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 32 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,968 health care providers accessible to residents in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28543 and Primary Care in Tarawa Terrace

This analysis provides a COPD score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 28543, focusing on Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina. The evaluation considers factors crucial for effective COPD management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and access to mental health support. The ultimate goal is to paint a picture of the healthcare landscape for COPD patients in this specific area, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of a strong COPD management system lies in accessible and qualified primary care. In Tarawa Terrace, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the area, influenced by its proximity to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, likely experiences population fluctuations. This creates challenges in maintaining consistently low ratios. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent per patient, and potentially compromised quality of care. Conversely, a lower ratio allows for more personalized attention and proactive disease management.

Analyzing individual practices within 28543 reveals variations in their approach to COPD care. Some practices may stand out due to their comprehensive services. These "standout practices" often demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, offering regular spirometry testing, pulmonary rehabilitation referrals, and patient education programs. They likely employ certified respiratory therapists or nurses with specialized COPD training. These practices may also have established protocols for managing acute exacerbations and coordinating care with pulmonologists. Identifying these practices is vital for patients seeking optimal care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator. The utilization of telehealth services can significantly improve COPD management, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine often have a more proactive approach to patient care, enabling them to identify and address potential problems early. This proactive approach can lead to fewer hospitalizations and improved patient outcomes. The level of telemedicine integration within practices in 28543 needs careful examination.

Beyond the purely physical aspects of COPD, the mental health of patients is paramount. COPD can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive COPD care system. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Assessing the availability of these resources, including access to counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services, is essential for evaluating the overall quality of COPD care in Tarawa Terrace.

Specific practices within 28543 should be evaluated based on their adherence to established COPD guidelines. This includes the frequency of spirometry testing, the use of appropriate medications, and the provision of patient education materials. Practices that regularly update their protocols based on the latest research and guidelines demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible care. This commitment should be reflected in their staff training, patient communication, and overall approach to disease management.

Furthermore, the collaboration between primary care physicians and pulmonologists is crucial. Effective COPD management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, with PCPs handling routine care and pulmonologists providing specialized expertise. Assessing the referral patterns between PCPs and pulmonologists in the area can reveal the level of collaboration and coordination of care. Practices that actively facilitate communication and referrals between these specialists are more likely to provide a higher standard of care.

The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs is another important factor. These programs provide patients with exercise training, education, and support to improve their lung function and overall quality of life. Practices that have strong relationships with pulmonary rehabilitation centers or offer these services in-house are better equipped to support their COPD patients. The accessibility of these programs, including factors like cost and location, should be considered.

In conclusion, a comprehensive COPD score for doctors in ZIP code 28543, and specifically within Tarawa Terrace, requires a multi-faceted assessment. This assessment must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, adherence to established guidelines, the level of collaboration between specialists, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. This detailed analysis will help identify areas of strength and weakness within the local healthcare system and provide insights for improving COPD care. The goal is to ensure that patients in Tarawa Terrace receive the best possible care, leading to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tarawa Terrace and visualize the distribution of resources, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and accessibility of support services, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome.