27242, Eagle Springs, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27242, Eagle Springs, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.45 percent of the residents in 27242 has some form of health insurance. 43.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.11 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 27242 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 319 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27242. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 140 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 206 health care providers accessible to residents in 27242, Eagle Springs, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Eagle Springs, NC (ZIP Code 27242)

Evaluating the quality of asthma care and primary care accessibility within Eagle Springs, North Carolina (ZIP code 27242), necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," considers factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform both patients and providers.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. In Eagle Springs, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and proactive treatment. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the initiation of asthma treatment or exacerbating existing conditions. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, provides the basis for calculating these ratios. However, the actual number of practicing PCPs within the specific ZIP code, versus those who may live in the area but practice elsewhere, is essential for a precise assessment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is vital. Are they clustered in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Geographic accessibility, including travel time and transportation options, significantly influences patient access to care. Rural communities, such as Eagle Springs, often face greater challenges in this regard. Furthermore, the types of primary care practices present – solo practices, group practices, or those affiliated with larger healthcare systems – affect the resources and support available to patients. Group practices, particularly those integrated with specialists like pulmonologists, often offer a more comprehensive approach to asthma management.

A key component of the "Asthma Score" is the evaluation of specific practice characteristics. Does a practice have dedicated asthma educators or nurses trained in asthma management? These professionals play a crucial role in patient education, medication adherence, and the development of personalized asthma action plans. Are spirometry tests, a standard diagnostic tool for asthma, readily available within the practice? The availability of these resources demonstrates a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) can streamline care coordination, allowing for better communication between providers and improved monitoring of patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve asthma care accessibility, especially in rural areas. Telehealth appointments can reduce the need for travel, saving patients time and money. They can also facilitate more frequent check-ins, allowing for proactive adjustments to treatment plans. The "Asthma Score" would assess the availability of telehealth options, including video consultations, remote monitoring devices, and the use of patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, while the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential element of the "Asthma Score." Does the primary care practice offer on-site mental health services, or does it have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Collaboration between primary care providers and mental health specialists can lead to more holistic and effective care for patients with asthma. Access to support groups and educational programs focused on managing asthma and mental health is also a positive indicator.

Standout practices within the Eagle Springs area deserve recognition. This could include practices that demonstrate exceptional patient outcomes, innovative approaches to asthma management, or a strong commitment to patient education. Identifying these practices can serve as a model for other providers and provide valuable information for patients seeking the best possible care. This analysis would involve reviewing patient feedback, evaluating practice performance data (where available), and recognizing practices that go above and beyond in providing comprehensive asthma care.

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" would incorporate an assessment of the availability of specialized asthma care. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists is crucial for patients with complex or poorly controlled asthma. The proximity of these specialists, as well as the ease of referral from primary care practices, would be considered. The presence of specialized asthma clinics or programs within the region would significantly enhance the overall score.

The availability of pharmacy services within the ZIP code is also an important consideration. Easy access to pharmacies that stock asthma medications and provide patient counseling on proper inhaler technique and medication management is essential. The presence of 24-hour pharmacies or pharmacies offering home delivery services can further improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

Finally, public health initiatives and community resources play a vital role in asthma management. The "Asthma Score" would evaluate the presence of asthma education programs, support groups, and community outreach efforts aimed at raising awareness about asthma and promoting healthy living. Collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations can create a supportive environment for individuals with asthma.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Eagle Springs, NC (27242) is a dynamic assessment that requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. It is dependent on the availability of data from various sources, including public health agencies, healthcare providers, and patient feedback. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and informative overview of the asthma care landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. This analysis would inform patients about the quality of care available and also guide healthcare providers in identifying opportunities for improvement.

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