29152, Shaw A F B, South Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 29152, Shaw A F B, South Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 58.76 percent of the residents in 29152 has some form of health insurance. 11.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.76 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 29152 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 605 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29152. An estimate of 9 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 1,509 health care providers accessible to residents in 29152, Shaw A F B, South Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29152 and Primary Care Availability in Shaw AFB

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within ZIP code 29152 and its proximity to Shaw Air Force Base (AFB) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight potential standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in determining a COPD Score.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can strain access to care, especially for a chronic condition like COPD. ZIP code 29152, encompassing the area around Sumter, South Carolina, and its proximity to Shaw AFB, likely faces challenges. The presence of a military population, often with unique healthcare needs and potential for frequent relocations, further complicates the landscape. Publicly available data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), would be necessary to establish a precise ratio. However, it is reasonable to anticipate a potential shortage, especially in specialized pulmonology services, which are essential for COPD management.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into local healthcare providers. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, the availability of comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFT) capabilities, and the implementation of evidence-based COPD management protocols. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as Prisma Health, often have greater resources and access to specialized expertise. Patient reviews, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care. Furthermore, accreditation by organizations like the Joint Commission or the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can indicate a commitment to quality and patient safety. The presence of dedicated COPD education programs and support groups would also be a significant positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of patients, medication management, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local primary care practices and pulmonologists involves examining their use of secure video conferencing platforms, remote monitoring devices (e.g., pulse oximeters), and patient portals. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. The integration of telemedicine into COPD management can lead to earlier interventions, improved medication adherence, and reduced hospitalizations.

The connection between COPD and mental health is well-established. Patients with COPD often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges due to the chronic nature of their illness and its impact on their quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive COPD Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Assessing the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and pulmonology clinics is essential. Do these providers screen for mental health conditions? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? The presence of mental health resources, either within the practice or through readily accessible referrals, significantly enhances the overall quality of care for COPD patients.

Analyzing the primary care availability in Shaw AFB requires a separate but related assessment. The Air Force Medical Service (AFMS) provides healthcare to active-duty personnel, their families, and retirees. The availability of primary care within the base, including the number of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, is a crucial factor. The AFMS often utilizes a patient-centered medical home model, which emphasizes team-based care and coordination. Examining the AFMS's COPD management protocols, access to pulmonary specialists, and integration of mental health services is essential. The proximity of Shaw AFB to civilian healthcare providers in ZIP code 29152 creates a potential for collaboration and resource sharing, such as referrals to specialists or participation in community support groups.

In conclusion, determining a COPD Score for doctors in ZIP code 29152 and primary care availability in Shaw AFB requires a comprehensive evaluation. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with specialized COPD care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors. This analysis highlights the need for detailed investigation, combining publicly available data with on-the-ground assessments of local healthcare providers. This includes understanding the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the military population and the potential for collaboration between military and civilian healthcare systems.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 29152 and the surrounding area, including the location of primary care practices, pulmonologists, hospitals, and other relevant resources, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, identify potential areas of need, and provide a more nuanced understanding of the COPD care environment.