27705, Durham, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27705, Durham, North Carolina is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.07 percent of the residents in 27705 has some form of health insurance. 27.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.18 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 27705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,074 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 646 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27705. An estimate of 250 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,637 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45,592 health care providers accessible to residents in 27705, Durham, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Durham, NC (ZIP Code 27705)

Analyzing asthma care accessibility and quality within Durham, North Carolina's 27705 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and identifies standout practices within the area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents can access and manage their asthma.

The foundation of asthma management rests on readily available primary care. In Durham, and specifically within 27705, the density of PCPs is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates better access. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, is essential to calculate this ratio. A ratio below the national average, for example, would suggest better access to primary care, which is a positive indicator for asthma management. Conversely, a higher ratio could indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they clustered in specific areas, leaving other parts of the ZIP code underserved? Are practices accepting new patients, and are they accepting various insurance plans? These factors significantly impact the 'Asthma Score'. Practices that are open to new patients and accept a wide range of insurance plans increase accessibility for a broader population, especially those with chronic conditions like asthma.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly for managing chronic conditions. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and symptom monitoring. In the context of asthma, this can lead to more frequent check-ins, quicker responses to exacerbations, and improved patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices within 27705 that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, would receive a higher score in this analysis. The ease of access to these services is also crucial; are the platforms user-friendly, and are they accessible to patients with limited technological literacy?

Mental health is inextricably linked to asthma management. The stress and anxiety associated with the condition can worsen symptoms and negatively impact overall quality of life. Access to mental health resources, either within primary care practices or through referrals, is therefore a critical component of a robust asthma care system. Practices that integrate mental health services, whether through on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or educational resources, would be recognized in this 'Asthma Score'. The availability of these resources is particularly important for patients struggling with the psychological impact of asthma.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. This includes the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the integration of innovative approaches. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma education, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively engage patients in their care would be considered high-performing. Patient reviews, publicly available data on quality metrics, and the adoption of evidence-based practices are key indicators. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, providing asthma education and resources to the wider community, would be highly regarded.

The assessment of primary care availability in Durham goes beyond just the 27705 ZIP code. It requires an understanding of the broader healthcare landscape. The presence of large hospital systems, specialty clinics, and urgent care centers all contribute to the overall accessibility of care. The proximity of these facilities to the 27705 ZIP code residents is a factor. The availability of after-hours care, particularly for asthma exacerbations, is also essential. Easy access to emergency services is critical for managing acute asthma attacks.

The 'Asthma Score' would not be a static number but a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates would be necessary to account for changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. The methodology for calculating the score would be transparent and data-driven, drawing on publicly available information and, where possible, patient feedback. The score would be a valuable tool for residents seeking asthma care, as well as for healthcare providers looking to improve their services.

The impact of social determinants of health must also be considered. Factors such as socioeconomic status, housing quality, and access to transportation can significantly influence asthma outcomes. Practices that are aware of these factors and actively work to address them, through patient education, community partnerships, or referrals to social services, would receive a higher score. This holistic approach to care is essential for improving outcomes for all patients.

In conclusion, the 'Asthma Score' for ZIP code 27705 and primary care availability in Durham is a complex evaluation. It requires assessing physician density, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the quality of care provided by local practices. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of asthma care accessibility and quality. This analysis highlights the importance of readily available primary care, the benefits of telemedicine, and the crucial role of mental health resources in effective asthma management.

To visualize the distribution of physicians, identify underserved areas, and explore the healthcare landscape of Durham, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow for the dynamic visualization of healthcare data, providing valuable insights into access to care and the overall health of the community.