27047, Siloam, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27047, Siloam, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 74.07 percent of the residents in 27047 has some form of health insurance. 31.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.21 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 27047 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 477 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27047. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,378 health care providers accessible to residents in 27047, Siloam, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27047 and Primary Care Availability in Siloam

Analyzing healthcare access, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care within Siloam, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27047), specifically examining physician resources and their capacity to manage asthma patients. We will assess an "Asthma Score" based on several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. In Siloam, the ratio reflects the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) available to the population. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, allowing for more personalized and proactive management of chronic conditions like asthma. Accurate data on this ratio is essential for an initial assessment, and public health resources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) can provide valuable insights.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is critical. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. This excellence can be measured through several metrics. Firstly, adherence to national asthma guidelines, such as those established by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), is paramount. Practices that consistently follow these guidelines, including proper diagnosis, medication management, and patient education, often achieve better patient outcomes. Secondly, patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable feedback on the quality of care. Practices with high patient satisfaction scores, reflecting positive experiences with providers and staff, are likely to offer a more patient-centered approach to asthma care. Finally, examining the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonologists or asthma educators, within the practice or through referral networks, is crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Siloam. Telemedicine offers several advantages for asthma patients. It allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be particularly challenging for patients with severe asthma or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care. The availability of secure telehealth platforms and the training of physicians in their use are essential components of successful telemedicine implementation.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, often exacerbating symptoms and negatively impacting quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referral networks is a critical factor in providing comprehensive asthma care. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, offer on-site counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health providers are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their asthma patients. This integrated approach can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Further complicating the analysis is the availability of specialists. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the accessibility of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists is vital for managing complex asthma cases. The proximity of these specialists, referral networks, and the speed with which patients can access these resources directly impact the quality of asthma care in Siloam. The presence of a strong network of specialists enhances the Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a single number but a composite assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of practices adhering to guidelines, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor contributes to the overall score, reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care available in the community. A higher score suggests better access and more effective management of asthma.

To improve the Asthma Score in Siloam, several strategies could be employed. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, particularly those with experience in asthma management, would be a significant step. Supporting practices in adopting telemedicine technologies and providing training for their use can enhance accessibility and convenience. Promoting the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is crucial for addressing the holistic needs of asthma patients. Collaboration between primary care providers, specialists, and community resources can also improve care coordination and patient outcomes.

The availability of asthma education programs is also a crucial factor. Patients who are well-educated about their condition, including triggers, medication management, and self-management strategies, are better equipped to control their asthma and prevent exacerbations. Practices that offer asthma education programs or partner with community organizations to provide these services are likely to have better patient outcomes.

Finally, continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential. Tracking key metrics, such as asthma exacerbation rates, hospitalizations, and patient satisfaction, allows for ongoing assessment of the effectiveness of asthma care in Siloam. This data can be used to identify areas for improvement and to inform the development of targeted interventions.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities in asthma care within ZIP Code 27047. By focusing on these key factors, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify strategies to improve access, quality, and outcomes for asthma patients in Siloam.

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