27581, Stem, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27581, Stem, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.14 percent of the residents in 27581 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.24 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 27581 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 868 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27581. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 499 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,990 health care providers accessible to residents in 27581, Stem, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27581 and Primary Care in Stem, NC

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area, particularly concerning a chronic condition like asthma, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 27581, encompassing the town of Stem, North Carolina, evaluating primary care availability and its impact on asthma management. The aim is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which are crucial for comprehensive asthma care.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. In Stem, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts asthma patients' ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate strain on the healthcare system, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for personalized care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to care, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive management of asthma symptoms. This ratio is a critical metric in determining the overall "Asthma Score" for the region.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices significantly influence the quality of asthma care. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide comprehensive asthma action plans, and offer specialized services like pulmonary function testing contribute to a higher "Asthma Score." The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between providers, streamline medication management, and enable better tracking of patient outcomes, ultimately leading to improved asthma control. Practices that have embraced EHRs demonstrate a commitment to providing modern, evidence-based care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Stem. The adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices can significantly improve the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and making it easier to manage chronic conditions like asthma. Virtual consultations can be particularly beneficial for monitoring asthma symptoms, adjusting medication dosages, and providing timely support during exacerbations. Practices that offer telemedicine options demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care and a willingness to adapt to the evolving needs of their community.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact overall well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is an essential component of a high "Asthma Score." Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integration of mental health services can help patients manage their asthma more effectively and improve their quality of life.

Determining a standout practice within ZIP code 27581 requires a deeper dive into individual practice characteristics. Identifying practices with a strong focus on asthma education, a dedicated asthma care team, and a patient-centered approach is crucial. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, provide clear and concise information about asthma management, and offer personalized treatment plans are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in asthma-related research or quality improvement initiatives demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and a dedication to providing the best possible care.

The overall "Asthma Score" for ZIP code 27581 is not simply a numerical value. It's a composite assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline measure of access. The characteristics of local practices, including their adoption of EHRs and telemedicine, indicate the quality of care provided. The availability of mental health resources highlights the practice's commitment to holistic care. By considering all these factors, a comprehensive "Asthma Score" can be derived, providing a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The assessment of primary care availability in Stem also necessitates considering the broader healthcare landscape. The proximity to larger medical centers and specialist care providers can influence the overall "Asthma Score." While Stem may have a limited number of primary care practices, access to specialized pulmonologists and other healthcare professionals in nearby towns or cities can mitigate some of the challenges associated with a smaller healthcare system. This broader perspective is essential for a complete understanding of the healthcare resources available to asthma patients in the region.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Asthma Score" for ZIP code 27581 and primary care in Stem involves a detailed analysis of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all play a crucial role in determining the quality and accessibility of asthma care. Identifying standout practices and understanding the broader healthcare landscape are also essential for a comprehensive assessment. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27581 and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their tools can provide a deeper dive into physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.