27926, Corapeake, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27926, Corapeake, North Carolina is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.26 percent of the residents in 27926 has some form of health insurance. 47.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.51 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 27926 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 361 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27926. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 457 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 43 health care providers accessible to residents in 27926, Corapeake, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in 27926 and Primary Care in Corapeake

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially concerning a condition like asthma, requires a nuanced approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 27926 (likely encompassing areas like Gatesville, NC) and the specific needs of the community in Corapeake, NC. Our goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The foundation of good asthma care lies in accessible primary care. In 27926, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Data from the US Census Bureau, combined with local healthcare provider information (obtained through online directories, insurance provider databases, and direct contact with practices), will reveal the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A low ratio (e.g., a high number of patients per physician) indicates potential challenges in timely access to appointments, follow-up care, and preventative services, all of which are vital for asthma control. Conversely, a more favorable ratio suggests greater ease of access.

Corapeake, as a smaller community within the broader 27926 area, presents unique considerations. Its primary care availability is a crucial factor. The presence of a local clinic or practice offering comprehensive primary care services is highly beneficial. This includes the ability to provide routine check-ups, asthma action plan development, medication management, and patient education. The absence of a local PCP necessitates travel to access care, potentially increasing the burden on patients, especially those with chronic conditions like asthma. This travel time can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The characteristics of the primary care practices in 27926 are also important. We need to assess the types of services offered. Do the practices have experience in managing asthma? Are they equipped with necessary diagnostic tools like spirometry to assess lung function? Do they have dedicated nurses or respiratory therapists trained in asthma care? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management, through specialized staff and equipment, will score higher in our assessment. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care or urgent care options is crucial, particularly for managing asthma exacerbations that can occur outside of regular office hours.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of our evaluation. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued use can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations for routine follow-ups, medication refills, and asthma education will receive a higher score. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, improve patient convenience, and allow for more frequent monitoring of asthma symptoms. It can also be used to connect patients with specialists, such as pulmonologists, who may not be readily available locally.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet vital, component of asthma management. Asthma can be a stressful condition, and anxiety and depression can exacerbate symptoms and negatively impact quality of life. We need to assess the availability of mental health services within the 27926 area. Are there mental health professionals (therapists, counselors, psychiatrists) who accept patients with asthma? Do the primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services? Practices that recognize the link between mental health and asthma, and provide access to mental health support, will be prioritized.

The "Asthma Score" will incorporate these elements. Each practice will be evaluated based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the range of services offered, the availability of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score will reflect the overall accessibility and quality of asthma care within 27926 and the specific considerations for Corapeake. The assessment will identify standout practices that excel in asthma management, highlighting their strengths and providing a model for other providers to emulate.

We anticipate challenges in data collection. Information on physician-to-patient ratios and the specific services offered by each practice may require extensive research. We may need to rely on publicly available data, insurance provider directories, and direct contact with practices to gather the necessary information. The availability of mental health resources may also be difficult to ascertain, requiring a comprehensive search of mental health provider databases and community resources.

The final "Asthma Score" will be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in 27926 and Corapeake. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement, guide resource allocation, and ultimately, improve the health outcomes of individuals with asthma. It will also help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare, empowering them to seek the best possible care.

This assessment, while comprehensive, is a snapshot in time. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. Physician availability, service offerings, and the adoption of new technologies change frequently. Regular updates and revisions to the "Asthma Score" are essential to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy. The goal is to create a dynamic tool that reflects the current state of asthma care and supports ongoing efforts to improve patient outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 27926, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and pharmacies, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Their maps provide a detailed geographic representation of healthcare resources, enabling you to identify the most accessible and convenient options for your healthcare needs.