27960, Ocracoke, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 27960, Ocracoke, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 73.21 percent of the residents in 27960 has some form of health insurance. 24.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.78 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 27960 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 236 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27960. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 16 health care providers accessible to residents in 27960, Ocracoke, North Carolina.

The analysis focuses on evaluating asthma care accessibility and quality within ZIP code 27960, specifically Ocracoke, North Carolina. This assessment considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support systems, all crucial factors in determining an asthma score.

Ocracoke, a remote barrier island, presents unique challenges to healthcare delivery. Limited physical access, a small population, and potential seasonal fluctuations in residents significantly impact the availability and utilization of healthcare services. The success of asthma management hinges on consistent access to primary care physicians (PCPs), who act as the cornerstone of ongoing care and coordination.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. While precise figures for Ocracoke alone are difficult to obtain due to its small size and the potential for physicians to serve multiple locations, the overall ratio for Dare County, which includes Ocracoke, provides a broader context. National averages are often used as benchmarks. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, poorer asthma control. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is also crucial. The need for specialized care, particularly for severe asthma cases, often necessitates travel to mainland facilities, adding to the challenges of healthcare access.

Standout practices in Ocracoke, if any, would be those that demonstrate exceptional patient care, comprehensive asthma management programs, and a commitment to community outreach. Such practices might implement patient education initiatives, offer personalized asthma action plans, and actively monitor patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices prioritizing preventative care, including vaccination and early intervention strategies, would contribute positively to the overall asthma score. A practice's ability to communicate effectively with patients, fostering a strong patient-physician relationship, is a key element of success.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve asthma care in geographically isolated areas like Ocracoke. Remote consultations allow patients to connect with their PCPs or specialists without the need for travel. This is particularly beneficial for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and asthma education. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, including video conferencing, remote monitoring devices (like peak flow meters), and secure messaging platforms, can enhance patient convenience and improve adherence to treatment plans. The availability of reliable internet access is, of course, a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of asthma management. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Effective asthma care should integrate mental health support, either through on-site counseling services or referrals to mental health professionals. Practices that recognize the link between asthma and mental health and provide access to these resources contribute significantly to a higher asthma score. This could involve screening for mental health issues during routine check-ups, providing educational materials on managing stress and anxiety, and fostering a supportive environment for patients.

The overall asthma score for Ocracoke would be determined by considering all these factors. A high score would reflect excellent primary care availability, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, outstanding practice characteristics, robust telemedicine integration, and comprehensive mental health support. Conversely, a low score would indicate limited access to care, high physician-to-patient ratios, inadequate practice resources, minimal telemedicine adoption, and a lack of mental health support. The score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve asthma care within the community.

The challenges of providing healthcare in a remote location like Ocracoke require innovative solutions and a commitment to patient-centered care. The success of asthma management hinges on the ability of healthcare providers to adapt to the unique needs of the community, leveraging technology and community resources to improve access and quality of care. Regular assessment and improvement are key.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare resources in Ocracoke and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and telemedicine availability, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer valuable insights into the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify providers and services that best meet your needs.