28584, Swansboro, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.20 percent of the residents in 28584 has some form of health insurance. 39.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.45 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 28584 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,421 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28584. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,146 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,838 health care providers accessible to residents in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina.

The analysis below delves into the COPD care landscape for primary care physicians within the 28584 ZIP code, which encompasses Swansboro, North Carolina. This evaluation considers factors crucial for COPD management, including physician availability, innovative care models, and access to mental health support, all critical elements for patient well-being.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Swansboro presents a significant challenge. While precise figures fluctuate, the area, like many rural locales, often faces a shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to timely care, and potentially poorer outcomes for individuals with chronic conditions like COPD. Addressing this shortage is paramount. Strategies could include incentivizing physicians to practice in underserved areas, expanding telehealth capabilities, and empowering nurse practitioners and physician assistants to practice at the top of their licenses.

Evaluating standout practices within the 28584 ZIP code requires a nuanced approach. Identifying practices excelling in COPD care necessitates considering factors beyond just the number of physicians. Key indicators include the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFTs) on-site, adherence to national guidelines for COPD management, patient education programs, and proactive strategies for preventing exacerbations. Practices that actively engage patients in self-management, offer smoking cessation programs, and coordinate care with pulmonologists are likely to be providing superior care.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in improving COPD care accessibility in Swansboro. Telehealth offers a powerful tool to bridge geographical barriers and connect patients with healthcare providers remotely. For COPD patients, this can translate to virtual check-ups, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. Practices embracing telemedicine can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce hospital readmissions, and provide timely interventions to prevent exacerbations. The successful implementation of telehealth requires not only the technology but also adequate training for both patients and providers, ensuring that the technology is user-friendly and integrated into the existing workflow.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD care, yet they are critically important. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their routine COPD care and offer referrals to mental health specialists are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. Furthermore, providing access to support groups and educational resources can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of living with COPD.

The landscape of COPD care in Swansboro, NC, is a complex interplay of resources, challenges, and opportunities. While the physician-to-patient ratio presents a hurdle, innovative approaches can mitigate its impact. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources are critical for improving patient outcomes. The availability of pulmonary function testing, adherence to national guidelines, and proactive strategies for preventing exacerbations are all key indicators of quality care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Swansboro and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed geographic data, allowing you to analyze physician density, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain valuable insights into the healthcare ecosystem.