28016, Bessemer City, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28016, Bessemer City, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.67 percent of the residents in 28016 has some form of health insurance. 37.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.77 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 28016 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,649 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 15 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28016. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,174 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,482 health care providers accessible to residents in 28016, Bessemer City, North Carolina.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacts quality of life, particularly in areas with limited access to quality healthcare. This analysis focuses on assessing the availability and quality of asthma care for residents of Bessemer City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28016), considering factors such as physician availability, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial components of a comprehensive asthma management strategy.

The foundation of asthma care lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Bessemer City, like many smaller communities, faces potential challenges in PCP density. While specific physician-to-patient ratios require constant updates from local health departments and are beyond the scope of this analysis, the general trend in rural areas suggests a potential scarcity compared to metropolitan centers. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialized care, and difficulties in establishing a consistent patient-physician relationship, all of which can negatively impact asthma control.

Within the 28016 ZIP code, the quality of asthma care is contingent on the practices available. Several factors contribute to a high asthma score. Practices that prioritize patient education on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique are vital. Furthermore, clinics that offer readily available spirometry testing (a lung function test) and regular asthma action plan reviews demonstrate a commitment to proactive asthma management. These proactive measures are vital to prevent asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has emerged as a crucial tool for improving asthma care, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. Telemedicine platforms allow patients to connect with their physicians for routine check-ups, medication refills, and symptom management consultations. This can be especially beneficial for asthma patients, who may need frequent monitoring. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies often demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Beyond the physical aspects of asthma management, the mental health of patients is a critical consideration. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care model are highly desirable. This might involve on-site counselors, referrals to mental health specialists, or educational resources on managing the psychological impact of asthma. The integration of mental health resources is a strong indicator of a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to asthma care.

Evaluating individual practices within the 28016 ZIP code requires a nuanced approach. Practices that stand out often exhibit a combination of factors. They may have a dedicated asthma educator on staff, offer extended hours to accommodate patient needs, and actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about asthma management. Furthermore, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can improve care coordination and communication between physicians and patients.

The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is another critical factor. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to specialists is essential for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can obtain referrals significantly impact the quality of care.

The overall ‘Asthma Score’ for doctors in the 28016 ZIP code is a complex metric. It necessitates a comprehensive assessment of the factors mentioned above, along with additional data points, such as patient satisfaction surveys, asthma-related hospitalization rates, and adherence to national asthma guidelines. These are all factors that require constant monitoring and evaluation.

Primary care availability in Bessemer City presents a mixed picture. While the city likely has a sufficient number of PCPs to meet the needs of the population, the quality of care can vary significantly. The integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the practices' commitment to patient education are critical differentiators.

In conclusion, improving asthma care in Bessemer City requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes increasing PCP availability, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and ensuring that practices prioritize patient education and proactive asthma management. The goal is to empower patients to effectively manage their asthma and improve their overall quality of life.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bessemer City and to identify practices that excel in asthma care, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to analyze physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to specialized care.