28581, Stacy, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28581, Stacy, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 28581 has some form of health insurance. 38.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.62 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 28581 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 23 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28581. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 201 health care providers accessible to residents in 28581, Stacy, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28581 & Primary Care in Stacy, NC

Analyzing the availability and quality of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) within ZIP code 28581, encompassing the area around Stacy, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, presented as a "COPD Score," aims to evaluate the resources available to patients, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial components in effective COPD management. The unique geographical considerations of Stacy, a coastal community, also play a role, potentially impacting access to care due to factors like seasonal population fluctuations and potential vulnerability to weather events.

The initial assessment centers on primary care availability. Stacy, being a smaller community, may face challenges in maintaining a robust primary care network. The COPD Score will consider the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code and the immediate surrounding areas. Furthermore, the score will evaluate the ease of access to these PCPs, including factors like appointment wait times, acceptance of new patients, and the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments. A higher concentration of PCPs and shorter wait times will contribute positively to the COPD Score, reflecting better access to essential care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can strain resources and potentially impact the quality of care. The COPD Score will factor in the estimated population of ZIP code 28581 and the number of practicing PCPs. A favorable ratio, with a greater availability of physicians per capita, will be weighted favorably, suggesting a more accessible and potentially less overburdened healthcare system. This analysis will also consider the availability of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, as they are vital for managing COPD, particularly in more advanced stages.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. The COPD Score will investigate practices that demonstrate excellence in COPD management. This includes evaluating factors such as the use of evidence-based guidelines, the implementation of patient education programs, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation services. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care will receive higher scores. The analysis will also consider patient reviews and feedback to gauge the patient experience, a crucial aspect of effective COPD management.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural and underserved areas. The COPD Score will assess the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine technologies. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and facilitate more frequent and convenient interactions with healthcare providers. The ability to remotely monitor patients' lung function and symptoms is particularly valuable in managing COPD exacerbations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for COPD patients. The COPD Score will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the area, including access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD management programs, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, will receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of support groups and educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of COPD.

The specific characteristics of Stacy, NC, as a coastal community, also influence the analysis. The COPD Score will consider the potential impact of seasonal population fluctuations on access to care. Does the influx of tourists or seasonal residents strain the healthcare system? Furthermore, the score will evaluate the community's preparedness for weather-related events, such as hurricanes, which can disrupt access to care and exacerbate COPD symptoms. The presence of emergency preparedness plans and accessible evacuation routes for vulnerable populations will be considered.

The COPD Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to capture changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of resources. The score provides a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

The final COPD Score will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available to COPD patients in ZIP code 28581 and Stacy, NC. This score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score will be presented with a clear explanation of the methodology and the data sources used. The goal is to provide a clear and actionable assessment that empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care and to support efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of COPD management in the community.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and access to respiratory therapists. These resources play a vital role in empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. The COPD Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources. The integration of these factors provides a holistic assessment of the healthcare ecosystem.

The COPD Score aims to be a useful tool for assessing the state of COPD care in the area. It provides a baseline for improvement and a framework for future assessments. By focusing on key factors like primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of mental health services, the COPD Score offers a comprehensive view of the available resources.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28581 and Stacy, NC, including the location of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome.