27235, Colfax, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27235, Colfax, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.31 percent of the residents in 27235 has some form of health insurance. 28.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.64 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 27235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 818 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27235. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,332 health care providers accessible to residents in 27235, Colfax, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Colfax, NC (ZIP Code 27235)

Analyzing asthma care within Colfax, North Carolina (ZIP code 27235) requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, quality of care, and access to resources. An “Asthma Score,” though not a formal metric, can be constructed by evaluating key factors influencing patient outcomes. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the state of asthma care in the area.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of asthma management rests on accessible primary care. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in Colfax is crucial. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the US Census Bureau are essential for this calculation. We need to determine the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 27235 ZIP code and divide it by the population. A lower ratio suggests potentially limited access, especially for patients with chronic conditions like asthma, who require regular check-ups and medication management.

Furthermore, the type of primary care available is vital. Are there enough family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians? The availability of pediatric specialists is particularly important, considering the prevalence of asthma in children. The presence of nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can alleviate some pressure on PCPs, but their roles and scope of practice need to be considered in the overall assessment.

**Quality of Care and Standout Practices:**

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires examining their asthma management protocols. Do they adhere to the guidelines set forth by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? This includes regular assessment of asthma control, personalized treatment plans, and patient education on triggers, medication usage, and emergency action plans.

Researching patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights. Are patients satisfied with their care? Do they feel heard and understood? Are they receiving adequate education and support to manage their asthma effectively? Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, especially regarding communication, empathy, and proactive management, deserve recognition.

Additionally, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable distance is a significant factor. While PCPs manage the majority of asthma cases, access to specialists is crucial for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Colfax. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption requires assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., peak flow meter readings), and electronic communication with patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater flexibility and convenience, potentially leading to improved patient adherence to treatment plans and better asthma control.

However, it's essential to consider the limitations of telemedicine. Not all patients have reliable internet access or the technological literacy to participate effectively. Furthermore, certain aspects of asthma care, such as physical examinations and spirometry, require in-person visits. A balanced approach, integrating telemedicine with traditional in-person care, is often the most effective strategy.

**Mental Health Resources and the Asthma Connection:**

The link between asthma and mental health is often overlooked. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, potentially worsening their symptoms and impacting their quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive asthma score.

This involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals within the community, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Are these professionals accepting new patients? Do they have experience treating patients with chronic illnesses?

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is beneficial. This could involve providing on-site counseling, offering referrals to mental health specialists, or educating patients about the connection between asthma and mental health. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their asthma patients demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

**Specific Considerations for Colfax:**

Colfax, being a relatively small community, might face unique challenges. The limited number of healthcare providers could potentially strain resources. Transportation challenges, especially for elderly or low-income patients, might further exacerbate access issues.

Therefore, a thorough analysis must consider the specific demographics and socioeconomic factors of the community. Are there any community health initiatives aimed at improving asthma care? Are there resources available to assist patients with medication costs or transportation?

**Conclusion:**

Creating an effective “Asthma Score” for Colfax requires compiling data from multiple sources and considering various factors. This analysis highlights the importance of physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. A comprehensive assessment would involve gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating practice protocols, reviewing patient feedback, and investigating the availability of specialized care and mental health support.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, map physician locations, and identify areas with potential access challenges, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help visualize and analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources in Colfax and surrounding areas.