27340, Saxapahaw, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27340, Saxapahaw, North Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 27340 has some form of health insurance. 25.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 27340 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27340. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,445 health care providers accessible to residents in 27340, Saxapahaw, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses asthma care quality and primary care accessibility within the context of ZIP code 27340 (which encompasses Saxapahaw, North Carolina), focusing on physician resources, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in healthcare delivery for asthma patients in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Saxapahaw, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing management, and acute care. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and require continuous data collection, publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can offer valuable estimates. These resources, when analyzed alongside local hospital systems and practice listings, provide a baseline understanding of the PCP density. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally, would translate to more available appointments and less waiting time for patients, especially those with chronic conditions like asthma.

The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, is equally important. These specialists possess the advanced knowledge and resources needed to manage complex asthma cases. The accessibility of these specialists within a reasonable distance from Saxapahaw is a key factor in the 'Asthma Score'. If pulmonologists and allergists are readily available, it can significantly improve the quality of care and potentially reduce hospitalizations and emergency room visits for asthma patients. The analysis would consider the travel time to these specialists, the availability of appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans.

Standout practices in the area would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive asthma management. This includes practices that actively implement evidence-based guidelines for asthma care, such as those published by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Key indicators of quality include the use of asthma action plans tailored to individual patients, regular assessments of asthma control, and patient education on proper medication use and environmental control measures. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and provide patient-centered care would score higher. These practices often have dedicated staff, such as asthma educators or respiratory therapists, who work closely with patients to manage their condition effectively.

Telemedicine adoption is a transformative element in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor patients' symptoms, and provide medication refills can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with limited mobility. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, allowing for secure video consultations and remote monitoring of peak flow meters or other relevant data, would receive a higher 'Asthma Score'. The analysis would consider the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use of the platforms, and the availability of technical support for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and integrate mental health services into their asthma care would be highly valued. This includes providing access to mental health professionals, offering counseling services, or collaborating with mental health providers in the community. A holistic approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of asthma is essential for optimal patient outcomes.

Specific examples of practices in the 27340 ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, would be researched to determine their specific offerings. For example, a practice that utilizes a patient portal for appointment scheduling, medication refills, and secure communication with their care team would be considered positively. Another practice that offers asthma education classes or support groups would also receive a favorable assessment. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about asthma and promote healthy living would also be noted.

The analysis would also consider the availability of pharmacies and other support services within the community. Easy access to pharmacies that stock asthma medications and provide patient counseling is crucial for medication adherence. The availability of resources like asthma support groups, patient education materials, and environmental control programs can further enhance the quality of care. The proximity of urgent care facilities or emergency rooms equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is also a critical factor in assessing the overall 'Asthma Score'.

The 'Asthma Score' would be a composite measure, considering all the above factors. It would not be a single number but rather a nuanced assessment of the healthcare landscape in the 27340 ZIP code. The final assessment would provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in the area and identify opportunities for improvement.

In conclusion, the quality of asthma care in Saxapahaw is a multifaceted issue, dependent on a combination of factors. Physician availability, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and the presence of high-quality practices all play critical roles in determining the overall 'Asthma Score'. By evaluating these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape and work towards improving the lives of asthma patients in this community.

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