27938, Gatesville, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27938, Gatesville, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.47 percent of the residents in 27938 has some form of health insurance. 46.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.40 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 27938 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 330 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27938. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 301 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 485 health care providers accessible to residents in 27938, Gatesville, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Gatesville, NC (ZIP Code 27938)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, in Gatesville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27938), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support, all critical components of effective asthma care. We will assess the current landscape, identifying strengths and weaknesses to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" ranking.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational element. In Gatesville, this ratio is a crucial factor. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) servicing a geographically dispersed population can create significant barriers to timely access to care. Long wait times for appointments, difficulty securing same-day sick visits, and the potential for delayed diagnosis or treatment are all consequences of an unfavorable ratio. This situation is further complicated by the prevalence of chronic conditions like asthma, which necessitate regular monitoring and proactive management. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, the rural nature of Gates County likely presents a challenge.

Primary care availability is inextricably linked to the physician-to-patient ratio. The physical presence of primary care practices, including their operating hours, appointment scheduling systems, and acceptance of various insurance plans, directly impacts patient access. The presence of urgent care facilities or after-hours clinics can mitigate some of the access challenges, particularly for acute asthma exacerbations. However, reliance on these alternatives should not overshadow the importance of establishing a strong relationship with a primary care provider who understands the patient's medical history and can provide ongoing asthma management.

Evaluating individual practices within the 27938 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. Identifying standout practices involves assessing several criteria. Does the practice offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have dedicated asthma educators or respiratory therapists on staff? Are they actively involved in patient education and self-management training? Do they employ evidence-based guidelines for asthma treatment and management, such as those outlined by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these elements, along with a patient-centered approach, would score higher in an asthma-specific assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers to care are significant. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and even initial assessments can improve access and convenience for asthma patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities, are likely to be more accessible and responsive to their patients' needs. The seamless integration of telehealth into the existing care model is a key indicator of a forward-thinking practice.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic disease management, but their importance cannot be overstated. Asthma, like other chronic illnesses, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration of mental health services can improve patient outcomes and overall asthma control.

Specific examples of standout practices, if available, would be crucial. This would involve researching the practices within the 27938 ZIP code and assessing their specific offerings. For instance, a practice that offers evening appointments, employs a certified asthma educator, and utilizes a patient portal for communication and medication refills would likely receive a higher score. Conversely, a practice with limited appointment availability, a lack of asthma-specific resources, and no telemedicine options would likely score lower.

The "Asthma Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. It considers the availability of physicians, the quality of primary care practices, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support. The score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of asthma-specific resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. Each of these components contributes to a comprehensive picture of asthma care accessibility and quality in Gatesville.

Assessing the current state of asthma care requires a detailed examination of the available resources and the practices that provide them. It is essential to consider the unique challenges faced by residents of Gatesville, including the rural setting and potential transportation limitations. Understanding these factors is critical for developing strategies to improve asthma management and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need. The focus is on improving access, enhancing the quality of care, and promoting patient self-management.

The evaluation of practices in the 27938 ZIP code involves a thorough review of their services, including their staffing, hours of operation, and the availability of specialized asthma care. The assessment should consider the patient experience, including ease of access, communication, and the overall quality of care provided. The utilization of technology, such as electronic health records and patient portals, can significantly impact patient care and improve outcomes.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The integration of mental health services into asthma care can improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The availability of mental health support, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, is a key indicator of a comprehensive approach to patient care.

The "Asthma Score" for Gatesville, NC, would be a composite measure reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It would highlight areas of strength and areas needing improvement. The score would be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, guiding efforts to enhance asthma care in the community. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, patient-centered, and effective in managing asthma.

For a more detailed and visually compelling understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gatesville, NC, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.