27822, Elm City, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27822, Elm City, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.52 percent of the residents in 27822 has some form of health insurance. 47.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.07 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 27822 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,916 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27822. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,669 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,837 health care providers accessible to residents in 27822, Elm City, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Elm City (27822)

Analyzing asthma care within Elm City, North Carolina (ZIP code 27822) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering their capacity to manage asthma, alongside the presence of ancillary services crucial for comprehensive patient care. The goal is to provide an “Asthma Score” assessment, evaluating the local healthcare ecosystem's ability to effectively address the needs of individuals with asthma. The analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and investigate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing asthma management outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Elm City is a foundational element of this assessment. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced access to care, and potentially compromised asthma management. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, along with publicly available population data, is essential to calculate this ratio accurately. We must consider the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, differentiating between general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family physicians, as these specialties typically manage asthma cases. The population data, sourced from the US Census Bureau, will then be used to determine the ratio. A concerningly high ratio would negatively impact the Asthma Score, indicating potential access challenges.

Identifying standout practices is critical. These practices often demonstrate superior asthma management strategies, potentially including specialized asthma clinics or programs. Evaluating practices involves examining several key indicators. First, the availability of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists within the practice or network is crucial. Second, the utilization of evidence-based asthma guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), should be assessed. This involves analyzing patient education materials, asthma action plan protocols, and the use of objective measures like spirometry to assess lung function. Practices that proactively engage in patient education, provide readily accessible asthma action plans, and consistently monitor patient outcomes will receive higher marks. Patient testimonials and online reviews, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences and satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The analysis will investigate the availability of telehealth services among primary care practices in Elm City. This includes assessing whether practices offer virtual consultations for medication refills, asthma management advice, or follow-up appointments. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as peak flow meters with data transmission capabilities, will also be considered. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma care protocols, providing convenient and accessible care options, will contribute positively to the Asthma Score.

The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is often overlooked but is crucial for holistic patient well-being. Asthma can significantly impact mental health, contributing to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health support within the local healthcare system is a critical component of the Asthma Score. This analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, who collaborate with primary care physicians in Elm City. The existence of integrated mental health services, such as co-located therapists within primary care practices or readily available referrals to mental health specialists, will be assessed. Practices that prioritize mental health support, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, will enhance the overall Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score itself will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted contributions of the factors discussed above. Physician-to-patient ratio will be a significant factor, with a lower ratio negatively impacting the score. The presence of standout practices, with their commitment to evidence-based care and patient education, will positively influence the score. Telemedicine adoption will be another key factor, with practices offering virtual care options contributing favorably. Finally, the integration of mental health resources will be a crucial element, with the availability of mental health support enhancing the score. The final Asthma Score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare ecosystem's capacity to effectively manage asthma within Elm City.

The quality of asthma care is not solely dependent on the presence of physicians. It’s also influenced by the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to respiratory therapists, who can provide specialized asthma education and support. The availability of pharmacies that stock a comprehensive range of asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and long-term control medications, is also essential. The analysis will consider the presence of these services within Elm City, recognizing their contribution to comprehensive asthma management.

Ultimately, assessing the asthma care landscape in Elm City (27822) requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. The Asthma Score, derived from the factors outlined above, provides a framework for evaluating the availability and quality of care. This analysis aims to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, highlighting areas for improvement and ultimately, contributing to better asthma outcomes for residents of Elm City.

For a visual representation of the data, including physician locations, practice specializations, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, providing a spatial understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elm City.