27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.50 percent of the residents in 27957 has some form of health insurance. 45.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.41 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 27957 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 50 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27957. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 385 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 727 health care providers accessible to residents in 27957, Merry Hill, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Merry Hill, NC (ZIP Code 27957)

Analyzing asthma care accessibility and quality within Merry Hill, North Carolina (ZIP code 27957) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," will evaluate primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive asthma management.

The primary care landscape in Merry Hill presents a significant challenge. While the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code requires real-time data analysis, the rural nature of the area suggests a potentially limited supply. Physician-to-patient ratios are likely unfavorable, meaning each doctor serves a larger patient population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments for asthma sufferers. The impact is amplified for those with complex asthma cases or those requiring frequent monitoring.

Standout practices, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to asthma-specific care. This includes practices actively employing certified asthma educators, offering peak flow meter training, and providing comprehensive asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs. These practices also need to be equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, to accurately assess lung function. Identifying such practices requires thorough investigation, examining patient reviews, and potentially contacting local advocacy groups or health organizations.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving asthma care accessibility in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor symptoms through connected devices, and provide remote education about asthma management are all valuable benefits. The Asthma Score would be positively influenced by practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, particularly those offering secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is, of course, a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they play a crucial role. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health screening and counseling services into their asthma care protocols demonstrate a more holistic approach. The Asthma Score would reflect the availability of mental health professionals within the practice or the existence of referral pathways to mental health providers in the community. This integration ensures that patients receive comprehensive support to manage both their physical and emotional well-being.

The Asthma Score for Merry Hill, NC, is therefore likely to be negatively impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The limited physician supply, potential lack of specialized asthma care, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption are all contributing factors. The score is further influenced by the availability of mental health resources and the overall commitment to patient education and support.

To improve the Asthma Score, several key strategies are needed. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is paramount. This could involve offering incentives, such as loan repayment programs or access to advanced training opportunities. Promoting the adoption of telemedicine is also crucial, providing training and support to both physicians and patients. Encouraging practices to integrate mental health services and to partner with local advocacy groups will further enhance the quality of care.

Furthermore, a community-wide effort to raise awareness about asthma management is essential. This includes educating patients about their condition, empowering them to take an active role in their care, and providing resources for accessing necessary services. Public health initiatives, such as asthma education programs in schools and community centers, can play a vital role in improving asthma outcomes.

The Asthma Score is not a static measure; it should be continuously evaluated and updated. This requires ongoing monitoring of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and patient outcomes. Regular assessments will identify areas for improvement and ensure that the community is providing the best possible care for its asthma sufferers.

The analysis of asthma care accessibility and quality in Merry Hill, NC, reveals a complex landscape. While the exact Asthma Score requires a detailed data collection and analysis, the preliminary assessment highlights the need for focused efforts to improve primary care availability, promote telemedicine adoption, integrate mental health resources, and enhance patient education. This comprehensive approach is essential for creating a healthier community for all residents.

To gain a comprehensive, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Merry Hill, NC, and to identify specific practices and resources, explore the power of geospatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points. Using CartoChrome, you can visualize the challenges and opportunities in asthma care within your community, empowering you to make informed decisions and advocate for improved healthcare access.