29924, Hampton, South Carolina COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 29924, Hampton, South Carolina is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.20 percent of the residents in 29924 has some form of health insurance. 43.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.05 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 29924 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 994 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29924. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 953 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 190 health care providers accessible to residents in 29924, Hampton, South Carolina.

## COPD Score Analysis: Hampton, SC (ZIP Code 29924)

This analysis aims to provide a COPD Score assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP Code 29924 (Hampton, South Carolina), focusing on factors crucial for effective COPD management. The evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive COPD care strategy. This assessment is intended to offer insights into the current healthcare landscape and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective COPD care lies in the availability of primary care physicians. Hampton, a rural community, likely faces challenges in physician recruitment and retention. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient access, and potentially compromised care quality. Publicly available data from sources like the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from professional medical directories, can help determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. This ratio, compared against national and state averages, provides a baseline understanding of access limitations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of existing primary care practices significantly impact COPD care quality. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists or physicians with specialized COPD training within a practice is a significant advantage. Practices that offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFTs), including spirometry, are better equipped for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of COPD progression. Furthermore, practices that participate in chronic disease management programs, specifically tailored to COPD, demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient care. The availability of on-site respiratory therapists or access to respiratory therapy services is another crucial factor. These professionals play a vital role in patient education, medication management, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into their operational models. Practices that actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often facilitate better communication and care coordination. The ability for patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments online, and communicate with their physicians electronically can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall disease management. Practices that prioritize patient education, offering educational materials and support groups, empower patients to actively participate in their own care. Positive patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experience.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to improve access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Hampton is a crucial element of this COPD Score analysis. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management through telehealth platforms can significantly reduce the burden on patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services can also extend the reach of specialists and improve access to pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration requires examining practice websites, reviewing insurance coverage for telehealth services, and potentially conducting direct inquiries with the practices.

COPD is a chronic disease that often co-exists with mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, are better equipped to address the psychological impact of COPD. Access to mental health support can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce exacerbations, and enhance overall quality of life. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources involves assessing practice affiliations, reviewing referral patterns, and identifying community-based mental health services available to patients in the area.

The COPD Score, in essence, is a composite measure that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of COPD care within the specified geographic area. A higher score would indicate a greater availability of physicians, specialized services, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. A lower score would suggest potential gaps in care and the need for interventions to improve access and quality. The score, therefore, is not a static number but rather a dynamic representation of the healthcare ecosystem.

The assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources provides a comprehensive overview of the COPD care landscape in Hampton. This analysis highlights the importance of addressing access barriers, promoting the integration of technology, and recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. The findings of this analysis can be used to inform healthcare planning, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for individuals living with COPD in Hampton, South Carolina.

The information provided in this analysis is based on publicly available data and general information. Individual patient experiences may vary. This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Hampton and explore the distribution of healthcare resources? Discover the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Explore physician locations, hospital access, and other vital data points to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.