27281, Jackson Springs, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27281, Jackson Springs, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 27281 has some form of health insurance. 37.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.27 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 27281 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 798 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27281. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 866 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 389 health care providers accessible to residents in 27281, Jackson Springs, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Jackson Springs (ZIP Code 27281)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality for asthma management in Jackson Springs, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27281) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources – all crucial components influencing an "Asthma Score" for this specific area. While a precise numerical score is difficult to generate without proprietary data, this analysis provides a comprehensive qualitative assessment.

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

The foundation of asthma care rests upon the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Jackson Springs, a rural area, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a significant factor influencing access. Rural communities often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to a lower ratio compared to more urbanized areas. This scarcity necessitates patients traveling further for appointments, potentially delaying care and exacerbating asthma symptoms. The availability of primary care is also inextricably linked to the overall health of the community. Limited access to preventative care, including routine check-ups and vaccinations, can indirectly contribute to a higher prevalence of respiratory illnesses, including asthma.

Assessing primary care availability necessitates exploring the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes considering the types of physicians available, such as family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians. The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, who focus on respiratory health, is also critical. Their availability directly impacts the ability to diagnose and manage complex asthma cases. Furthermore, the operational hours of these practices, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their capacity to accommodate new patients all play a role in determining the accessibility of care.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying "standout" practices requires evaluating several factors. These include the practice's approach to asthma management, its patient satisfaction scores, and its integration of technology. Practices demonstrating a commitment to asthma education, offering patient support groups, and utilizing evidence-based treatment protocols would likely receive higher marks. Moreover, practices that actively engage in preventative care, such as promoting influenza vaccinations and educating patients on environmental triggers, are essential.

The size and structure of the practices also matter. Larger practices might have more resources, including specialized staff like respiratory therapists and asthma educators. Smaller practices, on the other hand, might offer a more personalized approach to care, fostering stronger patient-physician relationships. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key consideration. EHRs facilitate better communication between healthcare providers, improve medication management, and allow for more efficient tracking of patient progress.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to overcome geographic barriers and improve access to asthma care, especially in rural areas like Jackson Springs. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices significantly impacts the "Asthma Score." Practices utilizing telehealth platforms for virtual consultations, medication refills, and follow-up appointments can expand their reach and provide more convenient care options.

The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access in the community. Furthermore, the practice's ability to integrate telehealth into its existing workflow, train staff, and ensure patient privacy and data security are crucial. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, allowing them to monitor their symptoms remotely, receive personalized guidance, and adjust their treatment plans as needed.

**Mental Health Resources and Asthma Management:**

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is an essential component of a comprehensive asthma care plan.

Practices that screen patients for mental health issues, offer counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would contribute positively to the "Asthma Score." The proximity of mental health clinics, therapists, and psychiatrists to the primary care practices is also important. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is vital for providing holistic care and addressing the complex needs of asthma patients.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the "Asthma Score" for Jackson Springs (ZIP Code 27281) reveals a complex interplay of factors influencing access to quality asthma care. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play crucial roles. While rural communities often face challenges, innovative approaches, such as telemedicine and integrated care models, can help mitigate these difficulties and improve the health outcomes of asthma patients.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Jackson Springs, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and telemedicine availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.