27801, Rocky Mount, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27801, Rocky Mount, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.79 percent of the residents in 27801 has some form of health insurance. 49.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.36 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 27801 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,280 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27801. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,130 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,624 health care providers accessible to residents in 27801, Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Rocky Mount, NC (ZIP Code 27801)

Analyzing asthma care within ZIP Code 27801 in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of supporting mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care within the community. The score is not a single number but a composite understanding derived from evaluating various contributing factors.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in access to primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. National averages provide a benchmark, but a lower ratio (more patients per physician) in 27801 could indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates for the zip code, can reveal the current PCP density. This density directly impacts the "Accessibility" component of the Asthma Score.

Beyond mere numbers, the distribution of PCPs across the community is vital. Are the practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access barriers for residents in other parts of the zip code? Factors like transportation limitations, particularly for individuals with asthma exacerbations, further complicate access. Practices located near public transportation hubs or offering patient transportation services would positively influence the "Convenience" aspect of the score.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves examining the practices' commitment to asthma-specific care. Do they employ certified asthma educators? Do they have dedicated asthma clinics or programs? Do they regularly assess patient control and adherence to treatment plans? Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to asthma management, including comprehensive patient education and regular follow-up, would receive a higher "Quality of Care" score. This assessment considers the implementation of evidence-based guidelines and the use of standardized asthma action plans.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine offers opportunities for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms for asthma-related visits would receive a higher "Technology Integration" score. This includes assessing the ease of use of the platforms, the availability of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth services with existing patient portals.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, and conversely, mental health issues can worsen asthma control. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore crucial. This includes the presence of mental health providers, support groups, and access to counseling services. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate services would contribute positively to the "Holistic Care" component of the Asthma Score.

Specific practices within 27801 require detailed investigation. Publicly available information, combined with patient reviews and feedback, can help identify practices known for their expertise in asthma management. Are there practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems that offer specialized asthma care? Are there practices that actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives? These factors would contribute to the "Reputation and Expertise" component of the score.

The overall Asthma Score is not simply the sum of these individual components. It is a complex interplay of factors, with each component influencing the others. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio might be mitigated by the widespread adoption of telemedicine. Conversely, a practice with excellent asthma management protocols might be less effective if it is geographically inaccessible to a significant portion of the population.

The availability of pediatric asthma specialists is another crucial consideration, particularly given the prevalence of asthma in children. The presence of pediatric pulmonologists or practices with a strong focus on pediatric asthma care would significantly boost the score. This includes assessing the availability of specialized diagnostic tools and treatment protocols tailored to children.

Furthermore, the economic and social determinants of health play a role. Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and lack of insurance, can significantly impact access to care and asthma control. The Asthma Score must consider the availability of resources to support vulnerable populations, such as free or low-cost clinics, patient assistance programs for medications, and community outreach programs.

The "Patient Education" component is crucial. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education on asthma triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques would receive a higher score. This includes assessing the availability of educational materials in multiple languages and the use of interactive tools to enhance patient understanding.

Finally, the "Community Collaboration" component assesses the level of collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations. A well-coordinated system of care, where information is shared and patients receive seamless support, would significantly improve the Asthma Score. This includes assessing the presence of asthma coalitions or task forces that bring together stakeholders to address asthma-related issues within the community.

This comprehensive analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in 27801. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, technological integration, mental health resources, and community collaboration, a more complete picture of the asthma care landscape emerges. This understanding can inform efforts to improve access, quality, and patient outcomes.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas of need within Rocky Mount, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed, allowing for a deeper understanding of the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and other relevant factors. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today!