27861, Parmele, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27861, Parmele, North Carolina is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.23 percent of the residents in 27861 has some form of health insurance. 54.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.15 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 27861 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 24 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 110 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27861. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,397 health care providers accessible to residents in 27861, Parmele, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Parmele (ZIP Code 27861)**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 27861 ZIP code, focusing on Parmele, North Carolina, while considering factors crucial to asthma care, such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" reflecting the overall environment for asthma patients in the area.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. In Parmele, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care – all detrimental to asthma control. Data on this ratio must be obtained from reliable sources, such as the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. The analysis should determine the number of active PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, and the estimated population of Parmele. This will provide a quantifiable metric of accessibility.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care offered by PCPs is paramount. This involves assessing the practices' commitment to asthma-specific protocols. Do they adhere to established guidelines, such as those from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Do they routinely conduct spirometry testing to assess lung function? Do they provide patient education on asthma triggers, medication management, and proper inhaler technique? The "Asthma Score" should incorporate an evaluation of these factors, potentially through surveys of local practices or reviews of their online presence.

Identifying standout practices within the 27861 ZIP code is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices in asthma care. Key characteristics of these practices might include: a dedicated asthma nurse or respiratory therapist; a strong emphasis on patient education and self-management; readily available appointment slots for urgent asthma exacerbations; and close collaboration with pulmonologists and allergists. The "Asthma Score" should highlight these exemplary practices, recognizing their contributions to improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in Parmele is a significant factor in the "Asthma Score." Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The analysis should assess the prevalence of telemedicine adoption and its impact on asthma care delivery.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can worsen asthma symptoms, while the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. The "Asthma Score" must consider the availability of mental health resources within the community. Are there mental health professionals who accept referrals from PCPs? Are there support groups or educational programs for individuals with asthma and co-occurring mental health conditions? The presence of these resources significantly enhances the overall care environment.

Assessing the accessibility of specialist care is also essential. While PCPs are the cornerstone of asthma management, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require the expertise of pulmonologists and allergists. The analysis should consider the proximity of these specialists to Parmele, the ease of referral from PCPs, and the wait times for appointments. A lack of access to specialists can negatively impact the "Asthma Score."

Medication affordability is another critical factor. The analysis should consider the availability of generic medications, the acceptance of various insurance plans by local pharmacies, and the existence of patient assistance programs for asthma medications. High medication costs can lead to non-adherence, exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing healthcare utilization. The "Asthma Score" should reflect the affordability of asthma medications in the area.

The infrastructure supporting asthma care extends beyond individual practices. The availability of community resources, such as asthma education programs, support groups, and environmental health initiatives, also plays a role. The analysis should assess the presence of these resources and their impact on patient outcomes. Strong community support can empower patients to better manage their asthma and improve their quality of life.

Data collection is a crucial aspect of this analysis. Information should be gathered from multiple sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, local healthcare providers, and patient advocacy groups. The analysis should be transparent about its data sources and methodology. The "Asthma Score" should be a data-driven assessment, providing a reliable reflection of the asthma care environment in Parmele.

The "Asthma Score" should be a dynamic metric, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new practices open, telemedicine adoption increases, or community resources become available, the score should be adjusted accordingly. This ongoing assessment ensures that the analysis remains relevant and useful for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

Finally, the "Asthma Score" should be presented in a clear and concise manner, using a rating system or a visual representation to communicate the overall quality of asthma care in Parmele. The score should be accompanied by a detailed report outlining the factors considered in the assessment and providing recommendations for improvement. This comprehensive analysis will empower stakeholders to make informed decisions and improve the lives of individuals with asthma in the 27861 ZIP code.

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