27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.28 percent of the residents in 27207 has some form of health insurance. 42.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.18 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 27207 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 550 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27207. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 960 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93 health care providers accessible to residents in 27207, Bear Creek, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27207 & Bear Creek Primary Care

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 27207, which encompasses areas like Asheboro, and assessing primary care availability in the broader Bear Creek region requires a multi-faceted approach. An "Asthma Score," while not a standardized metric, can be constructed to evaluate the quality and accessibility of asthma care, considering factors relevant to patient well-being and management. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive picture of the resources available to asthma patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. In a community with a high prevalence of asthma, a low ratio (fewer patients per physician) is generally preferable. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for pulmonologists and primary care physicians (PCPs) specializing in asthma care within 27207 necessitates data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. This data would then be cross-referenced with practice locations and patient demographics to calculate an estimated ratio. A low ratio suggests better access, enabling physicians to dedicate more time to each patient, facilitating thorough assessments, and personalized treatment plans. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, potentially impacting the timely management of asthma symptoms and exacerbations.

Identifying standout practices requires a review of various factors. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including appointment scheduling, wait times, communication with physicians, and overall satisfaction. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, particularly regarding asthma management, demonstrate a commitment to providing quality care. Furthermore, the presence of certified asthma educators (CAEs) within a practice is a significant advantage. CAEs are healthcare professionals specifically trained to educate patients about asthma triggers, medication management, and self-management techniques. Their expertise empowers patients to actively participate in their care, leading to improved outcomes and reduced hospitalizations. Practices that offer comprehensive asthma education programs, including personalized action plans, are likely to score higher in this assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, potentially reducing the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine follow-ups and medication adjustments. Practices that offer telemedicine services, especially those that integrate remote monitoring devices (e.g., peak flow meters), can provide more proactive and convenient care. Remote monitoring allows physicians to track a patient's asthma control in real-time, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments to treatment plans. The adoption of telemedicine is particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas like Bear Creek, where access to specialized care may be limited. The availability of telehealth services can bridge geographical barriers, ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care regardless of their location.

The integration of mental health resources is also critical. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Collaboration between pulmonologists, PCPs, and mental health professionals ensures that patients receive comprehensive support, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of their condition. The availability of mental health resources can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce asthma exacerbations, and enhance overall quality of life.

Assessing primary care availability in Bear Creek, a more rural area, requires a different lens. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be higher than in more urban settings. The availability of PCPs is the primary concern. The presence of a local clinic or hospital is essential. The distance patients must travel to access primary care services is a significant factor. The availability of transportation options, particularly for patients with limited mobility or financial resources, is also crucial. Identifying practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer sliding-scale fees can improve access for underserved populations.

In the context of asthma care, the availability of after-hours care is a significant factor. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and access to timely medical attention is critical. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or on-call services demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being. The ability to contact a physician or nurse for urgent concerns can prevent unnecessary trips to the emergency room and improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is an important consideration. While PCPs often manage asthma, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma may require the expertise of a specialist. The distance patients must travel to access specialized care can significantly impact their ability to receive optimal treatment. The presence of a local pulmonologist or allergist is a significant advantage for patients in the region.

The Asthma Score analysis, therefore, considers multiple factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, patient reviews, the presence of CAEs, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, access to primary and specialized care, and after-hours availability. This holistic approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available to asthma patients in 27207 and the Bear Creek area.

The data gathered for this analysis can be visualized and analyzed using mapping tools. To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient needs, consider using CartoChrome maps. This will help to visualize the data and identify areas with the greatest needs and the most significant gaps in care.