28590, Winterville, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28590, Winterville, North Carolina is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.10 percent of the residents in 28590 has some form of health insurance. 25.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.60 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 28590 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,443 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28590. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 446 health care providers accessible to residents in 28590, Winterville, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Winterville, NC (ZIP Code 28590)

Analyzing the landscape of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care in Winterville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28590) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, a 'COPD Score' assessment, considers primary care physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial for effective COPD management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment for individuals living with or at risk of developing COPD.

The foundation of COPD care rests on accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Winterville is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the current ratio, and comparing it to both state and national averages, is paramount. This data, readily available through sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, will help establish a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code matters. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, potentially leaving certain neighborhoods underserved? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other clinics specifically designed to serve vulnerable populations? Understanding the geographic distribution of care is critical for identifying potential disparities in access.

The characteristics of primary care practices themselves are also important. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patients' schedules? Do they have robust electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate efficient communication and care coordination? Practices that actively embrace these features are likely to provide a higher level of service to their patients, including those managing COPD.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the 'COPD Score.' Telemedicine offers significant advantages for COPD management, including remote monitoring of vital signs, virtual consultations, and medication management support. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce hospital readmissions, and enhance overall quality of life. Investigating the availability of telehealth services, including the specific platforms used and the types of services offered, is essential.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of COPD, but they are critically important. COPD can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within primary care practices or through referrals, is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. Evaluating the integration of mental health services, including screening protocols and referral pathways, is a key aspect of this 'COPD Score' analysis.

Standout practices within Winterville, NC, should be identified. These are practices that excel in one or more areas of COPD care. This might include practices with a strong focus on patient education, those that have successfully implemented telemedicine programs, or those with a demonstrated commitment to mental health support. Identifying these practices can serve as a benchmark for other providers and help patients make informed decisions about their care.

Further, the 'COPD Score' analysis needs to include a review of local hospital resources. Does the local hospital have a dedicated pulmonary unit? Are there respiratory therapists available? Is there a strong partnership between primary care practices and the hospital for managing COPD exacerbations? The availability of these resources is critical for providing timely and effective care during acute episodes.

The analysis should also consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs, which include exercise training, education, and support, are proven to improve COPD patients' lung function, exercise capacity, and quality of life. The presence of these programs, and their accessibility to patients in the ZIP code, is a key factor in the 'COPD Score.'

Finally, the analysis should evaluate the availability of patient education materials and support groups. Patients with COPD need to be educated about their condition, their medications, and how to manage their symptoms. Support groups provide a valuable opportunity for patients to connect with others who are facing similar challenges. The availability of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The 'COPD Score' for Winterville, NC, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new physicians arrive, practices evolve, and telemedicine technologies advance, the 'COPD Score' will need to be reassessed. This ongoing evaluation is crucial for ensuring that individuals with COPD have access to the best possible care.

Ultimately, a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in Winterville, NC, requires a detailed analysis of all the factors discussed above. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized programs, a clear picture of the local COPD care landscape can be developed. This information can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to help patients make informed decisions about their care.

For a visual representation of the 'COPD Score' analysis, including geographic distribution of physicians, practice locations, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding the complex healthcare landscape of Winterville, NC, and beyond.