27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.93 percent of the residents in 27910 has some form of health insurance. 47.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.40 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 27910 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,483 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27910. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,191 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 518 health care providers accessible to residents in 27910, Ahoskie, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Ahoskie, NC (ZIP Code 27910)**

Analyzing asthma care within Ahoskie, North Carolina (ZIP code 27910) requires a multifaceted approach. We must evaluate the available medical resources, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs), their responsiveness to asthma management, and the integration of innovative healthcare practices. This analysis will provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to the overall quality of care for asthma sufferers.

Ahoskie, a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges in healthcare access compared to more urban settings. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial initial indicator. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized care. Data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and publicly available physician directories, are essential to ascertain the current PCP-to-population ratio within the 27910 ZIP code. This ratio directly impacts the “Asthma Score.” A higher ratio, indicating better access, would positively influence the score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying “standout practices” involves assessing their approach to asthma management. This includes evaluating their use of evidence-based guidelines, the availability of asthma education programs for patients, and their proactive strategies for preventing asthma exacerbations. These practices may have dedicated asthma specialists, respiratory therapists, or nurses with specialized training in asthma care. Reviews from patients, and information from the practice’s website and other online platforms can help identify these standout practices. The degree to which a practice embraces these best practices significantly contributes to the “Asthma Score.”

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care providers in Ahoskie is a critical factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The availability of virtual consultations for asthma management, including medication adjustments and monitoring, can dramatically improve the quality of life for asthma patients. A practice that actively utilizes telemedicine will see a boost in its “Asthma Score.”

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can be a chronic condition that contributes to anxiety and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive asthma care. The presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, or readily accessible referrals to mental health specialists, is crucial. This includes therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can provide support and treatment for patients struggling with the psychological effects of asthma. The integration of mental health services directly impacts the “Asthma Score,” with greater availability leading to a higher score.

Evaluating the overall “Asthma Score” for Ahoskie also requires considering the availability of asthma-related medications and supplies. The accessibility of pharmacies and the affordability of inhalers and other necessary medications are critical. This includes the availability of generic medications and assistance programs for patients who struggle to afford their prescriptions. Easy access to these resources will influence the score positively.

To assess the performance of primary care availability, we can evaluate the average appointment wait times, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments for asthma exacerbations. These factors directly affect the patient’s ability to receive timely care. Long wait times and limited appointment availability can negatively impact the “Asthma Score.”

The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) is another factor to consider. EHRs facilitate better coordination of care, allowing physicians to access a patient's medical history and treatment plans more efficiently. This can lead to more informed decision-making and improved asthma management. Practices that have fully adopted EHRs are likely to provide a higher quality of care, thus contributing positively to the “Asthma Score.”

The overall “Asthma Score” for Ahoskie, NC (ZIP code 27910) is a composite assessment, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It's a dynamic measure, influenced by the evolving healthcare landscape. The score is not a static number but a reflection of the current state of asthma care in the community. It should be reviewed and updated regularly to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of mental health resources.

In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of asthma care in Ahoskie requires a detailed assessment of the resources available, the practices employed by healthcare providers, and the integration of innovative approaches like telemedicine and mental health support. By considering these factors, we can gain a clearer picture of the quality of care provided to asthma patients in this community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Ahoskie, NC, and to gain deeper insights into physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform can provide valuable data visualization and spatial analysis tools to enhance your understanding of healthcare access and asthma care in the region.