27896, Wilson, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27896, Wilson, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.34 percent of the residents in 27896 has some form of health insurance. 36.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.88 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 27896 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,331 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27896. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,860 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,120 health care providers accessible to residents in 27896, Wilson, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Wilson, NC (ZIP Code 27896)

This analysis provides an assessment of asthma care quality and accessibility within Wilson, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the ZIP code 27896. The evaluation considers factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all weighted to create an "Asthma Score" reflecting the overall healthcare landscape for asthma patients in this area. This score isn't a single number but a composite understanding derived from analyzing multiple facets of care.

The cornerstone of asthma care is access to qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). Wilson's primary care availability significantly impacts the Asthma Score. The physician-to-patient ratio in Wilson, and by extension, ZIP code 27896, is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in managing asthma exacerbations. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau, provides the raw data needed to calculate this ratio. A careful review of these data sources is essential to establish a baseline understanding of the current situation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices within the ZIP code is paramount. This assessment considers several factors. Does the practice have designated asthma specialists or clinicians with specialized training in asthma management? Are they equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as spirometry? Are they actively participating in quality improvement initiatives focused on asthma care, like those promoted by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based asthma management and proactive patient education will receive higher marks.

Another key element of the Asthma Score is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine offers a significant advantage for asthma patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or residing in rural areas. Remote monitoring of lung function, virtual consultations, and medication management can all be facilitated through telemedicine platforms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and utilizing remote monitoring devices, will be viewed favorably. The ease of access and convenience offered by telemedicine can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the frequency of emergency room visits.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the interplay between asthma and mental health. Asthma can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Conversely, mental health challenges can exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder effective treatment. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is a crucial component of the Asthma Score. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists will receive higher ratings.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 27896 is a crucial step. These practices serve as models for other providers. The evaluation will involve analyzing publicly available data, patient reviews, and potentially, direct outreach to practices to gather information. These practices are likely to demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidence-based asthma management, and a proactive approach to addressing the holistic needs of their patients. They might have dedicated asthma educators, offer patient support groups, or utilize innovative technologies to improve patient outcomes.

The Asthma Score will also incorporate an analysis of hospital resources in the area. The availability of emergency care for asthma exacerbations, the presence of specialized respiratory therapists, and the hospital’s overall commitment to asthma care are all considered. This analysis will assess the hospital's ability to handle acute asthma cases and its role in supporting primary care providers in managing chronic asthma.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of asthma-related educational materials and resources for patients. This includes information on asthma triggers, medication management, inhaler techniques, and emergency action plans. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education materials, both in-person and online, will be viewed more favorably. This proactive approach to patient education empowers patients to take control of their asthma and improve their overall health outcomes.

The assessment will also take into account the demographics of the population served by the practices. The prevalence of asthma can vary across different demographic groups, and practices serving populations with a higher prevalence of asthma may require additional resources and support. The analysis will consider the racial and socioeconomic makeup of the patient population and assess whether practices are effectively addressing the needs of all patients, regardless of their background.

The final Asthma Score will be a nuanced assessment reflecting the complex interplay of factors that influence asthma care quality and accessibility. It will not be a simple ranking but a comprehensive evaluation that can inform both patients and healthcare providers. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the asthma care landscape in Wilson, NC (ZIP code 27896).

This analysis will be dynamic. Healthcare landscapes evolve, and factors like physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources are constantly changing. The Asthma Score will need to be updated regularly to reflect these changes and provide the most accurate and relevant information. This ongoing evaluation ensures that patients and providers have the most up-to-date understanding of the available resources and the quality of care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Wilson, NC, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide a valuable visual context for understanding the Asthma Score and identifying areas where improvements in asthma care are needed.