27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.74 percent of the residents in 27009 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 27009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,063 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Belews Creek (ZIP Code 27009)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Belews Creek, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27009) requires a multi-faceted approach. An "Asthma Score" is not a standardized metric, but rather a composite assessment reflecting access to quality care, resource availability, and community support, all crucial for managing this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis will delve into the key components influencing this score, specifically focusing on physician availability, primary care resources, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible primary care. Belews Creek, a predominantly rural community, faces inherent challenges in this regard. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Data analysis is needed to determine the exact ratio within the ZIP code. A low ratio, signifying fewer doctors per capita, directly translates to potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, especially during asthma exacerbations. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment plans, and increased reliance on emergency room visits, all negatively impacting the Asthma Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as physician experience in treating asthma, adherence to national guidelines (e.g., the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines), and the availability of specialized equipment like spirometry. Practices that actively engage in patient education, provide personalized asthma action plans, and offer comprehensive follow-up care contribute significantly to a higher Asthma Score. This also includes the availability of after-hours care or on-call physicians, crucial for addressing urgent asthma-related needs.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve asthma care accessibility in rural areas. The adoption of telehealth services by primary care providers in Belews Creek is a significant factor in the Asthma Score. Practices utilizing virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices (e.g., peak flow meters with data transmission), and online educational resources can significantly enhance patient management. Telemedicine allows for more frequent check-ins, medication adjustments, and early intervention, ultimately leading to better asthma control and a higher Asthma Score. Examining the availability of these services, along with patient satisfaction and technological proficiency, is essential.

Asthma is not just a physical condition; it often has significant psychological implications. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder effective self-management. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is therefore crucial. The Asthma Score is improved by practices that offer in-house counseling, referrals to mental health specialists, or collaborations with behavioral health providers. Early detection and treatment of mental health concerns can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life. The availability of these integrated services significantly elevates the Asthma Score.

Furthermore, the availability of asthma-specific resources within the community plays a role. This includes support groups, educational programs, and access to affordable medications. Community health initiatives, such as those run by local health departments or non-profit organizations, can provide valuable support and education. The Asthma Score reflects the presence and accessibility of these resources, which empower patients to actively participate in their own care.

Analyzing the specific practices within 27009 requires data collection and analysis. This involves contacting primary care providers, reviewing their websites, and potentially conducting patient surveys. The data collected should be analyzed to assess the factors mentioned above.

The analysis should also consider the geographic distribution of healthcare resources. This is where tools like CartoChrome maps can become invaluable. Visualizing the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and other relevant resources within the ZIP code allows for a clear understanding of access disparities. Mapping the distribution of asthma prevalence within the community can further highlight areas where targeted interventions are needed.

The Asthma Score is dynamic and reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement. Regular updates to the score, based on new data and changes in healthcare practices, ensure its relevance and usefulness.

In conclusion, determining an accurate Asthma Score for Belews Creek necessitates a comprehensive assessment of physician availability, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and community resources. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the asthma care system within the community.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential access gaps, and gain a clearer understanding of the asthma care landscape in Belews Creek, consider using CartoChrome maps. Their mapping capabilities can provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members alike.