27544, Kittrell, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27544, Kittrell, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 27544 has some form of health insurance. 42.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.11 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 27544 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 963 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27544. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 882 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,678 health care providers accessible to residents in 27544, Kittrell, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27544 & Primary Care in Kittrell

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 27544 (likely encompassing Kittrell, North Carolina) and its surrounding areas, considering factors crucial for effective asthma care. These factors include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A comprehensive 'Asthma Score' is implicitly derived from these considerations, evaluating the overall environment for asthma patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, presents a significant hurdle. In a rural area like Kittrell, this can be exacerbated by geographical limitations and transportation challenges. Determining the precise ratio requires data on the number of practicing PCPs within a defined radius of Kittrell, compared to the population within that same radius. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be used to calculate this. A low ratio necessitates longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma management, and exacerbating the impact of acute asthma episodes.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in asthma care, can significantly improve the 'Asthma Score'. Identifying these practices involves several criteria. First, is the presence of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists. Second, is the adoption of evidence-based asthma guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Third, is the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination. Fourth, is patient education programs that empower individuals to manage their condition effectively. Finally, is the availability of after-hours care or on-call services to address urgent needs. Practices that excel in these areas contribute positively to the 'Asthma Score'.

Telemedicine adoption presents a promising avenue to improve access to care, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is particularly beneficial for asthma management, allowing for regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and education. The level of telemedicine adoption within the identified practices needs assessment. This involves evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., peak flow meters), and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing workflows. Practices actively embracing telemedicine contribute to a higher 'Asthma Score' by enhancing accessibility and convenience.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as vital in asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is therefore crucial. Evaluating the 'Asthma Score' requires assessing the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through referrals. This includes identifying the presence of on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with mental health providers, and the implementation of screening tools for mental health conditions. Practices that prioritize mental health integration contribute to a higher 'Asthma Score' by providing holistic care.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma education programs is a crucial element of the 'Asthma Score'. These programs should provide patients with the knowledge and skills to manage their asthma effectively. This includes education on medication usage, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans. The practices that provide such programs, whether through in-person classes, online resources, or educational materials, enhance the overall quality of asthma care and thus positively impact the 'Asthma Score'.

Analyzing the availability of after-hours care and urgent care facilities is another important consideration. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and timely access to medical care is essential. The presence of after-hours clinics or urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance from Kittrell provides patients with access to immediate medical attention when needed. The lack of such facilities can negatively impact the 'Asthma Score' by potentially delaying treatment and increasing the risk of adverse outcomes.

The overall 'Asthma Score' for the area is a composite of these factors. A high score indicates excellent access to care, high-quality practices, and comprehensive support services. A low score suggests challenges in access, quality, and support. The score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of board-certified specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, the availability of asthma education programs, and access to after-hours care.

Gathering the data necessary to accurately assess the 'Asthma Score' requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes reviewing publicly available data, conducting interviews with local healthcare providers, and analyzing patient satisfaction surveys. The data should be analyzed in detail to identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system. This can be used to inform targeted interventions to improve asthma care in the area.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact asthma management. These factors include income levels, access to transportation, and housing conditions. These factors can significantly influence a patient's ability to manage their asthma effectively. Addressing these factors can help improve the overall 'Asthma Score' and reduce disparities in asthma outcomes.

In conclusion, evaluating the 'Asthma Score' for doctors in ZIP code 27544 and primary care availability in Kittrell requires a thorough analysis of access, quality, and support services. By considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and other crucial factors, we can assess the overall environment for asthma patients. This analysis provides valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients, ultimately leading to improved asthma care.

For a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and to visualize the factors discussed, explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, offering a powerful tool for understanding and improving healthcare access.