27704, Durham, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27704, Durham, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.95 percent of the residents in 27704 has some form of health insurance. 34.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.63 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 27704 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,465 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27704. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,856 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45,737 health care providers accessible to residents in 27704, Durham, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Durham (27704) - Primary Care & Physician Landscape

Durham, North Carolina, a vibrant city experiencing rapid growth, presents a complex landscape for healthcare accessibility, particularly concerning chronic conditions like asthma. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources within the 27704 ZIP code, examining factors that contribute to an "Asthma Score" – a hypothetical metric reflecting the ease with which asthma patients can access quality care. This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized asthma care, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in managing this respiratory condition effectively.

The 27704 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Durham, faces challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare delivery. A critical factor influencing the Asthma Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. Areas with a higher concentration of PCPs, particularly those accepting new patients, generally receive a higher score. Conversely, regions with shortages, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment, would receive a lower score. Data from local and national sources, including the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into these ratios. However, the actual figures can fluctuate based on physician availability, patient insurance types, and the willingness of practices to accept new patients.

Standout practices within 27704 significantly influence the Asthma Score. Practices with a demonstrable commitment to asthma management, such as those employing certified asthma educators, offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing, and providing readily available allergy testing, would receive higher marks. These practices often follow evidence-based guidelines for asthma treatment, including the use of inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and patient education. They also emphasize patient self-management strategies, empowering individuals to control their asthma effectively. The presence of specialized pulmonologists or allergists within or affiliated with primary care practices further enhances the score, offering access to specialized expertise when needed.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial component of the Asthma Score. Practices that have embraced telehealth platforms, offering virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring capabilities, are likely to receive higher scores. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, allowing for convenient follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and symptom management, especially during periods of exacerbation. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, integrated with telehealth platforms, can further enhance the quality of care and improve patient outcomes. Practices that offer telehealth services also demonstrate a commitment to accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in asthma management, thus impacting the Asthma Score. Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health professionals, either within the practice or through referral networks, would receive higher scores. This integration may involve on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health clinics, or the use of telehealth platforms to provide mental health services. Addressing the psychological aspects of asthma can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce exacerbations, and enhance overall health outcomes.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score is influenced by the availability of educational resources and support groups. Practices that provide asthma education materials, offer group classes, or connect patients with support groups, are likely to receive higher scores. These resources empower patients to understand their condition, manage their symptoms, and advocate for their needs. Educational programs may cover topics such as asthma triggers, medication usage, inhaler techniques, and emergency management. Support groups provide a forum for patients to share experiences, learn from each other, and build a sense of community.

Assessing the Asthma Score also involves evaluating the accessibility of emergency care. Proximity to urgent care centers and hospitals equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is a critical factor. Areas with readily available emergency services, including 24/7 access to respiratory therapists and specialized asthma care units, would receive higher scores. The ability to quickly access emergency care can prevent severe asthma attacks from escalating and potentially save lives.

Finally, the Asthma Score considers the affordability of care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, offer sliding-scale fees for uninsured patients, and provide information on prescription assistance programs would receive higher scores. The cost of asthma medications, medical appointments, and diagnostic tests can be a significant barrier to care for many patients. Practices that prioritize affordability and provide resources to help patients manage their healthcare costs are more likely to ensure that all patients have access to the care they need.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for 27704 is determined by a complex interplay of factors, including physician availability, the presence of specialized asthma care, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of educational programs, access to emergency services, and the affordability of care. While this analysis provides a general overview, specific data and ongoing evaluation are essential to accurately assess the quality and accessibility of asthma care within this dynamic community.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and gain further insights into the factors influencing the Asthma Score in Durham, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 27704 and beyond.