27874, Scotland Neck, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27874, Scotland Neck, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.59 percent of the residents in 27874 has some form of health insurance. 51.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.94 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 27874 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 482 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27874. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,297 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 291 health care providers accessible to residents in 27874, Scotland Neck, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Scotland Neck, NC (ZIP Code 27874)

The health landscape of Scotland Neck, North Carolina, a community nestled within ZIP code 27874, presents a complex picture when viewed through the lens of asthma care. Assessing the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition requires a multi-faceted analysis, considering factors ranging from physician availability to the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" perspective, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

One of the primary concerns in evaluating asthma care is the physician-to-patient ratio. Scotland Neck, like many rural communities, may face challenges in attracting and retaining a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs). A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialized care, and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. This can be particularly problematic for asthma patients, who often require regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and prompt attention during exacerbations. Without readily available primary care, patients might delay seeking treatment, potentially leading to more severe asthma attacks and increased hospitalizations. The specific physician-to-patient ratio in 27874 needs rigorous investigation. Publicly available data sources, such as those maintained by the North Carolina Medical Board or the US Department of Health and Human Services, can provide vital information.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community is crucial. Are physicians clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Scotland Neck underserved? Are there any specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, who regularly see patients in the area? The presence of specialists is particularly important for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma, who may require advanced diagnostic testing and treatment. The absence of these specialists forces patients to travel outside the community, which can create significant barriers to care, especially for those with limited transportation options or mobility challenges.

Identifying standout practices within the community is key to understanding the best practices in asthma management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive asthma management plans, and the use of evidence-based guidelines should be recognized. This includes practices that actively monitor patient symptoms, provide individualized treatment plans, and offer patient education on topics such as medication adherence, trigger avoidance, and proper inhaler technique. Examining the quality of care requires a review of patient outcomes, such as asthma exacerbation rates, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations. Practices with lower rates of these adverse events are likely implementing effective asthma management strategies.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in assessing asthma care accessibility. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care, particularly in rural areas like Scotland Neck. Telehealth appointments can be used for routine follow-up visits, medication refills, and patient education. This can significantly reduce the need for in-person visits, saving patients time and travel costs. Moreover, telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring of patient symptoms, allowing healthcare providers to identify and address potential problems early on. The availability of telemedicine services among local practices, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, should be carefully evaluated.

The interplay between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Conversely, mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and make it more difficult for patients to manage their condition. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is an important consideration. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who are readily accessible to asthma patients? Do local practices offer integrated mental health services, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists? The integration of mental health care into asthma management can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

Evaluating the asthma score also requires a look at community resources. Are there support groups for asthma patients? Are there educational programs offered by local hospitals or health organizations? The presence of these resources can provide patients with valuable support, education, and a sense of community. Community-based programs can also play a role in raising awareness about asthma, promoting early detection, and encouraging healthy behaviors.

The availability of affordable medications is another critical factor. The cost of asthma medications can be a significant barrier to care, particularly for low-income patients. The analysis should consider the availability of resources that help patients afford their medications, such as patient assistance programs and generic drug options.

Finally, the analysis should assess the overall coordination of care. Does the community have a system in place to ensure that patients receive seamless care from their primary care physician, specialists, and other healthcare providers? Effective care coordination can help prevent medical errors, reduce duplication of services, and improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma score for Scotland Neck (27874) requires a comprehensive analysis of physician availability, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of community support, and the affordability of medications. This assessment should be based on a thorough review of publicly available data, interviews with healthcare providers, and input from asthma patients. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to develop strategies for improving asthma care in the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Scotland Neck and surrounding areas, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and socioeconomic data relevant to asthma management, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful tools for visualizing and analyzing geospatial data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence asthma care in your community.