27929, Currituck, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27929, Currituck, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.65 percent of the residents in 27929 has some form of health insurance. 32.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.41 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 27929 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 726 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27929. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 682 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,083 health care providers accessible to residents in 27929, Currituck, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 27929 and Primary Care Availability in Currituck

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area like ZIP code 27929 (Currituck, North Carolina) requires a multi-faceted approach. Asthma management, a chronic respiratory condition, serves as a useful indicator of overall primary care efficacy. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, examine asthma-specific resources, evaluate the integration of telemedicine, and consider the availability of mental health support, all within the context of Currituck County.

The foundation of good asthma management rests on consistent access to primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Currituck County is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and difficulty in managing chronic conditions. The specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 27929 needs to be investigated. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) would provide this information.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of primary care practices available are important. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or larger healthcare systems present? Group practices often offer advantages like shared resources, extended hours, and a broader range of specialties. Larger healthcare systems may have integrated electronic health records (EHRs), potentially improving care coordination and communication. The presence of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists specializing in asthma care within the area significantly improves asthma management capabilities.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the practice's commitment to preventative care, and evaluating their asthma management protocols. Do these practices offer comprehensive asthma action plans? Do they provide patient education on triggers, medication use, and proper inhaler technique? Do they have dedicated asthma nurses or respiratory therapists? Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes are likely to be strong performers.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Currituck County. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care providers is a key indicator. Does the practice offer virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication refills, or brief consultations? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, allowing for remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual education sessions, and quicker access to care when needed. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that can transmit data directly to the physician, would further enhance telemedicine's impact.

The relationship between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or readily accessible through referrals is crucial. Does the practice screen for mental health conditions? Do they have partnerships with local mental health providers? Are there resources available for patients struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns related to their asthma? Integrated care, where mental health services are offered alongside primary care, is ideal.

Further, the availability of asthma-specific resources within the community is important. Are there support groups for asthma patients and their families? Are there educational programs offered by local hospitals or community health organizations? The presence of these resources indicates a proactive approach to asthma management and a commitment to patient empowerment.

To create a comprehensive asthma score, all these factors need to be weighted and evaluated. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant component, along with the types of practices available, their telemedicine adoption rates, and their integration of mental health services. The availability of specialized asthma care, patient education, and community resources would also factor into the scoring.

Ultimately, the asthma score for doctors in ZIP code 27929 will reflect the overall accessibility and quality of primary care, as well as the specific resources available for managing asthma. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare infrastructure, with readily available primary care physicians, telemedicine capabilities, mental health support, and asthma-specific resources. A low score would highlight areas for improvement, such as a need for more primary care providers, increased telemedicine adoption, and improved integration of mental health services.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Currituck County, focusing on asthma management as a key indicator. It highlights the importance of access, quality, and the integration of various healthcare services.