27860, Pantego, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27860, Pantego, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.21 percent of the residents in 27860 has some form of health insurance. 42.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.93 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 27860 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 592 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27860. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 252 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 526 health care providers accessible to residents in 27860, Pantego, North Carolina.

Analyzing asthma care within ZIP code 27860, encompassing the town of Pantego, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must evaluate the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the accessibility of specialized asthma care, the integration of technology, and the presence of supportive mental health resources. This analysis will provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment, though it’s important to remember that a definitive numerical score is difficult without direct access to all internal data. Instead, we’ll assess key areas and provide a relative ranking based on available public information and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of asthma management in Pantego rests on the strength of its primary care network. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit appointment availability. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board, offers some insight into the number of licensed physicians within the ZIP code. However, this data doesn't specify the number of primary care physicians actively accepting new patients or dedicated to adult and pediatric care. Further research, perhaps through local healthcare directories or patient reviews, is needed to determine the actual patient-to-physician ratio and its impact on access to care.

Primary care availability is further assessed by examining the hours of operation, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the presence of after-hours or weekend care options. Extended hours and flexible scheduling can significantly improve access for working families and those with transportation limitations. The acceptance of a broad range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, is crucial for ensuring affordability and access for all residents. The availability of same-day appointments for acute asthma exacerbations is another vital factor.

Within Pantego, we need to identify standout primary care practices. These practices likely demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through various means. This could include: employing nurses or medical assistants trained in asthma education, offering spirometry testing (a lung function test), actively participating in asthma-related continuing medical education, and having a documented asthma action plan process for patients. Patient reviews, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the responsiveness of the staff, the clarity of communication, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on asthma management is significant. Telemedicine enables virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function using connected devices, and educational resources. The extent of telemedicine adoption within primary care practices in Pantego is a key component of our ‘Asthma Score’. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of virtual follow-up appointments, medication refills via telemedicine, and remote monitoring tools are all positive indicators.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked in asthma management, yet they are critically important. Asthma can trigger anxiety and depression, and these conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. The presence of mental health services within primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals is a significant positive factor. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, as well as educational materials and support groups. The integration of mental health screening tools into routine asthma care can help identify patients who may benefit from mental health support.

Specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also an important consideration. While primary care physicians can manage many asthma cases, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require the expertise of specialists. The proximity of specialists to Pantego and the ease of referral processes are important factors. This includes the availability of specialists within a reasonable driving distance, the efficiency of the referral process, and the ability of specialists to coordinate care with the patient's primary care physician.

The quality of asthma education provided to patients is another critical aspect of asthma management. This includes education on asthma triggers, medication use, inhaler technique, and asthma action plans. Practices that provide comprehensive asthma education, either in-person or through online resources, are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The availability of written materials, videos, and interactive tools can enhance patient understanding and adherence to treatment plans.

Medication access and affordability are also key considerations. The availability of a pharmacy within Pantego or nearby is essential. The ability of patients to afford their asthma medications, including inhalers and other devices, is a crucial factor in controlling asthma symptoms. Practices that assist patients in navigating medication costs, such as by providing information on patient assistance programs or generic alternatives, are highly valued.

Based on these factors, we can begin to formulate a relative ‘Asthma Score’ for the healthcare landscape in Pantego (ZIP code 27860). A high score would indicate: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care appointments, strong telemedicine adoption, integration of mental health resources, and a commitment to patient education. A lower score would indicate the opposite.

Ultimately, the 'Asthma Score' is a dynamic assessment. Regular updates are needed to reflect changes in healthcare delivery, physician availability, and the adoption of new technologies. Further research, including direct patient surveys and interviews with healthcare providers, would enhance the accuracy of this assessment.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pantego, including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and specialists, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with high or low access to care and to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.