28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.10 percent of the residents in 28573 has some form of health insurance. 42.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.53 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 28573 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 388 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 23 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28573. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 323 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,302 health care providers accessible to residents in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina.

**COPD Score Analysis: Pollocksville, NC (ZIP Code 28573)**

This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians and resources for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management in Pollocksville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28573). The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements for comprehensive COPD care. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals living with COPD in this specific geographic area.

Pollocksville, a small town in Jones County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Rural areas often face shortages of healthcare professionals, particularly primary care physicians, which can directly impact access to COPD diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The prevalence of COPD, exacerbated by factors like smoking and environmental pollutants, necessitates a robust healthcare infrastructure to support affected individuals.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 28573 requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, based on general trends in rural North Carolina, it is likely that the physician-to-patient ratio in Pollocksville is less favorable than in more urban areas. This means that each primary care physician may be responsible for a larger patient population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time for individual patient consultations.

The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of effective COPD management. These physicians are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms. They are responsible for initial diagnosis, formulating treatment plans, prescribing medications, and coordinating care with specialists, such as pulmonologists. A scarcity of primary care physicians can therefore create significant barriers to accessing timely and appropriate care for COPD patients.

**Practice Characteristics and Standout Practices**

The characteristics of local primary care practices are vital to COPD care quality. Factors like the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (e.g., spirometry for lung function testing), the presence of certified respiratory therapists, and the implementation of COPD-specific care protocols all contribute to better patient outcomes. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and adhere to established COPD guidelines are particularly beneficial.

Identifying "standout practices" involves assessing several aspects. These include the physician's experience and specialization, the availability of ancillary services (e.g., pulmonary rehabilitation programs), and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive COPD management plans, and actively engage in patient follow-up demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care.

**Telemedicine Adoption**

Telemedicine presents a promising avenue for improving COPD care access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing exposure to potential infections. It can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education.

The extent of telemedicine adoption in Pollocksville's primary care practices is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Practices that have integrated telemedicine into their services can provide more convenient and efficient care for COPD patients. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and the delivery of educational materials through online platforms. The availability of reliable internet access for patients is, of course, a crucial prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

**Mental Health Resources**

COPD often has a significant impact on mental health. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical limitations and social isolation it can cause, can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive COPD care.

Assessing the availability of mental health support in Pollocksville involves examining the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) and the accessibility of mental health services. This includes the availability of individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups specifically for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is crucial to ensure integrated care for COPD patients.

**Conclusion**

Evaluating COPD care in Pollocksville, NC, requires a multifaceted approach. The analysis highlights the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. While specific data is needed to create a precise COPD score, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare resources in Pollocksville, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and mental health providers, we recommend exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome.