28594, Emerald Isle, North Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 28594, Emerald Isle, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.34 percent of the residents in 28594 has some form of health insurance. 37.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.04 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 28594 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 608 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28594. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,171 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,264 health care providers accessible to residents in 28594, Emerald Isle, North Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Emerald Isle, NC (ZIP Code 28594)

Analyzing the COPD landscape within Emerald Isle, North Carolina (ZIP code 28594) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall support system for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This is a crucial assessment, given the prevalence of COPD and the importance of accessible, high-quality healthcare in a coastal community that may attract a significant elderly population, a demographic often disproportionately affected by this respiratory illness.

One of the primary indicators of COPD care accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the precise ratio for Emerald Isle requires accessing data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other relevant sources. However, a general understanding can be gleaned by considering the population of the area and the number of practicing primary care physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio, signifying a greater availability of doctors, is a positive indicator for COPD management. Conversely, a high ratio may lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment, and increasing the risk of exacerbations. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, within a reasonable driving distance is also a critical factor.

Within Emerald Isle, the presence of standout primary care practices is essential. Identifying these practices involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating their commitment to COPD management. Practices that actively screen for COPD, offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing, and provide patient education are more likely to provide superior care. The implementation of evidence-based guidelines for COPD management, including medication adherence support and smoking cessation programs, is also crucial. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient care, including regular follow-up appointments and personalized treatment plans, should be considered top performers.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical aspect of COPD care in Emerald Isle. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide timely interventions, monitor patient symptoms, and adjust treatment plans as needed. The ability to remotely monitor vital signs, such as oxygen saturation levels and heart rate, can enable early detection of exacerbations and reduce the need for emergency room visits.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are of paramount importance. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in chronic illness is crucial. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the primary care setting, can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. Practices that offer support groups, educational programs, and access to mental health resources are better equipped to address the holistic needs of COPD patients.

Analyzing the availability of these resources, including the physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, provides a comprehensive picture of COPD care in Emerald Isle. The assessment should also consider the demographics of the area, including the prevalence of smoking and the age distribution of the population. These factors can influence the incidence of COPD and the specific needs of the patient population.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of COPD management is also influenced by factors such as patient education, access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and the availability of support groups. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs provide patients with education, exercise training, and support to improve their lung function and quality of life. Support groups offer a valuable opportunity for patients to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support.

In conclusion, the COPD score for Emerald Isle, NC (ZIP code 28594) is dependent on a variety of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall support system for individuals managing COPD are all essential elements. A comprehensive assessment should consider all of these factors to provide an accurate picture of the quality and accessibility of COPD care in the area. The goal is to ensure that individuals with COPD have access to the best possible care, enabling them to live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Emerald Isle, including the location of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the information discussed in this analysis, making it easier to understand the availability of resources and identify areas where improvements are needed.