27824, Engelhard, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina is 3 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.23 percent of the residents in 27824 has some form of health insurance. 50.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.82 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 27824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 417 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6 health care providers accessible to residents in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 27824 and Engelhard Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 27824, encompassing Engelhard, North Carolina, evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all critical factors influencing asthma patient outcomes. We will assess these elements to derive an 'Asthma Score,' a qualitative measure of the healthcare landscape's suitability for asthma patients in this specific geographic area.

The primary concern in rural areas like Engelhard is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer asthma control. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, Engelhard, being a small community, likely faces challenges in this area. The nearest population centers with higher concentrations of medical professionals, like Washington, NC, may serve as referral points, but this introduces travel time and transportation barriers, particularly for patients with acute asthma exacerbations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of existing practices are vital. Do the practices offer comprehensive asthma management programs? Do they have specialized equipment for pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and peak flow monitoring? Are they equipped to handle acute asthma episodes, including the availability of nebulizers and trained staff? The presence of certified asthma educators within the practice is a significant advantage, providing patients with essential education on triggers, medication management, and self-management techniques.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve asthma care in rural settings. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like asthma, who may require regular monitoring. The availability of telemedicine services, including video consultations and remote monitoring of peak flow meters, would contribute positively to the 'Asthma Score.' The extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is a key factor.

Mental health is inextricably linked to asthma management. Asthma, a chronic condition, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and stress. Conversely, these mental health challenges can exacerbate asthma symptoms and complicate treatment adherence. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care practices or readily accessible in the community is crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can address the psychological aspects of asthma. The integration of mental health services into asthma care is a critical component of a comprehensive approach.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. Practices that actively participate in asthma-focused quality improvement initiatives, demonstrate high patient satisfaction scores, and have a proven track record of effective asthma control would be considered exemplary. These practices might have dedicated asthma clinics, offer evening or weekend appointments, and actively engage with patients to ensure adherence to treatment plans. These factors would contribute to a higher 'Asthma Score.'

The 'Asthma Score' is not a single, quantifiable number but rather a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. A high score would indicate readily available PCPs, comprehensive asthma management programs, widespread telemedicine adoption, strong mental health support, and exemplary practices. A low score would suggest challenges in accessing care, limited resources, and potential barriers to effective asthma management.

For ZIP code 27824, the 'Asthma Score' is likely to be moderate. The rural nature of Engelhard likely limits the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialized services. However, the presence of dedicated and caring primary care physicians, even if limited in number, can significantly improve the score. The degree of telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health services will also play a crucial role.

The analysis of primary care availability in Engelhard reveals a potential need for increased access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists. This could be addressed through increased telemedicine services, allowing for consultations with specialists located further away. The expansion of mental health resources, either within primary care practices or through partnerships with community organizations, would also be beneficial.

To further enhance the 'Asthma Score' and improve asthma care in Engelhard, several recommendations can be made. First, efforts should be made to recruit and retain primary care physicians. Second, practices should be encouraged to adopt telemedicine technologies to expand their reach and improve patient access. Third, the integration of mental health services into asthma care should be prioritized. Fourth, community education programs should be developed to raise awareness about asthma and promote self-management techniques.

This analysis highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing asthma care in a rural setting. The availability of resources, the characteristics of practices, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine all contribute to the overall 'Asthma Score.' Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective strategies to improve asthma outcomes and ensure that patients in Engelhard receive the care they need.

This analysis provides a general overview. To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 27824, consider exploring interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points. They can help you identify potential gaps in care and visualize the healthcare resources available in Engelhard and the surrounding areas.