27862, Pendleton, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27862, Pendleton, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.37 percent of the residents in 27862 has some form of health insurance. 43.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.66 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 27862 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 82 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27862. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 203 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 605 health care providers accessible to residents in 27862, Pendleton, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Pendleton, NC (ZIP Code 27862)

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care within Pendleton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27862) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, technology integration, and access to mental health resources, all contributing factors to an "Asthma Score" reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of care. This score, though not a formally recognized metric, provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment for asthma patients.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Pendleton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the rural nature of the area suggests a potential scarcity of PCPs compared to more urban settings. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment. A lower physician-to-patient ratio would thus negatively impact the Asthma Score.

Furthermore, the specific practices within the area need careful examination. Are there practices that specialize in respiratory care or have a strong track record in asthma management? Do they employ certified asthma educators or offer comprehensive asthma action plans? The presence of these resources would significantly boost the Asthma Score. Standout practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive monitoring, and personalized care, all crucial elements in controlling asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. In a rural area like Pendleton, telemedicine can be a game-changer. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, monitor their symptoms, and receive timely interventions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher score. This technology can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters connected to digital platforms, would further enhance the Asthma Score.

Mental health resources are also intrinsically linked to asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who understand the complexities of asthma and its psychological impact is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services or have strong referral networks to mental health providers would contribute positively to the overall Asthma Score. This holistic approach to care recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

Beyond individual practices, the broader healthcare infrastructure in Pendleton plays a role. Are there local pharmacies that stock a wide range of asthma medications and provide patient counseling? Does the local hospital have a well-equipped emergency department capable of handling asthma exacerbations? The availability of these supporting resources contributes to a higher Asthma Score. Furthermore, community outreach programs, such as asthma education workshops or support groups, can empower patients and improve their self-management skills.

The Asthma Score is also influenced by the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to pulmonologists or allergists is essential for patients with complex or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity of these specialists, or the ease of referral to them, is an important consideration. The ability of primary care physicians to consult with specialists on complex cases, via telemedicine or other means, would also improve the Asthma Score.

The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) can significantly enhance the quality of asthma care. EHRs facilitate better communication between healthcare providers, allow for the tracking of patient data, and enable the creation of personalized treatment plans. Practices that have implemented robust EHR systems, with features specifically designed for asthma management, would receive a higher score. This technology can improve the efficiency of care and reduce the risk of medical errors.

The affordability of asthma medications and treatments is another crucial factor. The Asthma Score is negatively impacted by high out-of-pocket costs for patients. Practices that work with patients to navigate insurance coverage, access patient assistance programs, and find affordable medication options would contribute to a higher score. This focus on affordability ensures that patients can adhere to their treatment plans without financial hardship.

The overall Asthma Score for Pendleton, NC (ZIP Code 27862) would be a composite of these factors. It's a dynamic assessment, as the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The score could be improved by increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, encouraging telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health services, and ensuring access to affordable medications. Furthermore, the presence of specialized asthma care practices, community outreach programs, and robust EHR systems would significantly boost the score.

This analysis highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to asthma care, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, the integration of technology, and the support provided to patients. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that empowers patients to effectively manage their asthma and live healthier lives.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pendleton, including the specific locations of healthcare providers, their services, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify practices, assess their proximity to your location, and make informed decisions about your asthma care.