28025, Concord, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28025, Concord, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.44 percent of the residents in 28025 has some form of health insurance. 35.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.74 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 28025 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14,058 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 32 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28025. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,979 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,995 health care providers accessible to residents in 28025, Concord, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Concord, NC (ZIP Code 28025)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of asthma care within Concord, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 28025. We aim to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors like physician access, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial for comprehensive asthma management. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed assessment based on publicly available data and general industry knowledge.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). In assessing the landscape of Concord, we must examine the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally translates to easier access for appointments and more individualized care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with demographic information for the 28025 ZIP code, allows for an estimation of this ratio. However, it's important to acknowledge the limitations of this data; it doesn't account for physician specialization (e.g., pulmonologists) or the influx of patients from surrounding areas.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs across Concord is important. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of the ZIP code? This geographic analysis helps determine if there are "healthcare deserts" where access to care is limited. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by each practice is a critical factor. Practices actively accepting new patients contribute significantly to improved access.

Standout practices in Concord, in the context of asthma care, often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive management. This includes not only diagnosing and treating asthma but also providing patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques. Practices that integrate asthma action plans into their care models are particularly noteworthy. These plans, developed in collaboration with patients, outline specific steps to take in response to varying asthma symptoms.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key element of a high "Asthma Score." Telemedicine offers several advantages for asthma patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, medication refills, and virtual consultations. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those seeking convenient follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as secure video conferencing and remote monitoring devices, receive higher marks in this assessment.

Mental health is inextricably linked to asthma management. Chronic conditions like asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health specialists, or integrate mental health screening into their routine assessments demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Evaluating the quality of care also involves considering the practice's use of evidence-based guidelines for asthma management. Does the practice adhere to the latest recommendations from organizations like the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Are they regularly reviewing patient medication regimens to optimize control and minimize side effects? Practices that prioritize evidence-based practices and continuous quality improvement initiatives are likely to provide better outcomes for their patients.

Another aspect of the "Asthma Score" involves evaluating the practice's responsiveness to patient needs. This includes factors such as appointment availability, wait times, and the ease of communication with the practice staff. Practices that offer flexible appointment scheduling, efficient communication channels (e.g., online portals, email), and a patient-centered approach tend to receive higher scores in this area.

The presence of specialized asthma clinics or pulmonologists within the 28025 ZIP code significantly enhances the overall "Asthma Score." These specialists possess advanced knowledge and experience in managing complex asthma cases. Their availability provides a crucial resource for patients who require more specialized care, such as those with severe asthma or those who are not responding to standard treatments.

Furthermore, the availability of asthma education programs and support groups in Concord plays a vital role. These resources empower patients to take control of their condition, learn self-management techniques, and connect with others who share similar experiences. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources are highly valued.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for Concord, NC (28025) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and the overall commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed assessment would necessitate direct engagement with practices and a deeper dive into their specific practices and offerings. This is a dynamic landscape, and the "Asthma Score" can change as practices evolve and new resources become available.