28589, Williston, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28589, Williston, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 44.74 percent of the residents in 28589 has some form of health insurance. 44.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 28589 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28589. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,066 health care providers accessible to residents in 28589, Williston, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28589 & Primary Care Availability in Williston

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within ZIP code 28589 (likely encompassing portions of Swansboro, North Carolina) and the town of Williston, NC, requires a multi-faceted approach. We will assess key indicators to formulate a "COPD Score," reflecting the capacity of the local healthcare infrastructure to serve individuals managing this chronic respiratory illness. This analysis will focus on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective COPD care.

A primary consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly impacts access to care. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more comprehensive care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 28589 and Williston necessitates data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. It’s crucial to differentiate between general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and pulmonologists, as the latter are specifically trained in respiratory illnesses like COPD. Any shortage of pulmonologists would significantly impact the COPD Score, as these specialists are vital for diagnosis, management, and advanced treatments.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating clinics and hospitals within the geographical area. This assessment goes beyond simply listing providers. It requires examining patient reviews, the availability of specialized equipment (e.g., pulmonary function testing), the presence of certified respiratory therapists, and the implementation of evidence-based COPD management protocols. Does the practice offer comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation programs? Are there dedicated COPD education sessions for patients and their families? Practices excelling in these areas would receive higher scores, contributing positively to the overall COPD Score. Researching local healthcare provider websites and contacting the practices directly can provide valuable insights into their specific offerings.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in modern healthcare, especially for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Remote monitoring capabilities, allowing doctors to track patients' vital signs and symptoms from afar, can facilitate early intervention and prevent exacerbations. Assessing the level of telemedicine integration involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to online patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine will receive higher scores, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and proactive care.

The often-overlooked aspect of COPD management is the critical role of mental health. COPD can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Access to mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore essential. Assessing the COPD Score requires investigating the availability of these resources within the community. Are there mental health professionals integrated into primary care practices? Are there partnerships with local mental health organizations? The presence of readily accessible mental health support systems will significantly improve the COPD Score, reflecting a holistic approach to patient care.

Williston, as a smaller town, presents unique challenges and opportunities. The availability of primary care physicians may be limited compared to more urban areas. This necessitates a focus on creative solutions, such as mobile health clinics, partnerships with larger healthcare systems in nearby cities, and the expansion of telemedicine services. The COPD Score for Williston will reflect the community's ability to overcome these challenges and ensure access to quality COPD care.

The analysis of 28589 requires a similar approach, but with consideration for the potentially greater population and the presence of more healthcare providers. Identifying practices that specifically cater to the needs of COPD patients, including those with access to specialized equipment and expertise, is critical. The score will reflect the overall strength of the healthcare infrastructure in the area and its ability to meet the specific needs of COPD patients.

A critical component of a robust COPD Score analysis is data verification. Relying solely on publicly available information can be misleading. Contacting local healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and community health organizations is essential to obtain accurate and up-to-date information. This includes verifying physician credentials, confirming the availability of specific services, and gathering feedback from patients about their experiences.

Ultimately, the COPD Score is not a single number but a composite of various factors. It reflects the overall capacity of the healthcare system in 28589 and Williston to provide effective COPD management. A high score indicates a strong healthcare infrastructure with readily accessible physicians, telemedicine capabilities, mental health support, and specialized COPD care. Conversely, a low score highlights areas that require improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing access to mental health resources.

For a comprehensive visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of key resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that allow you to visualize healthcare data, identify gaps in care, and make informed decisions about resource allocation. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28589 and Williston and support improved COPD management.