28027, Concord, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28027, Concord, North Carolina is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.38 percent of the residents in 28027 has some form of health insurance. 25.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.24 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 28027 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 21,025 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 32 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28027. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 9,107 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,453 health care providers accessible to residents in 28027, Concord, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Concord, NC (ZIP Code 28027)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Concord, North Carolina (ZIP code 28027) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors influencing asthma management, including physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and access to supportive resources. We'll develop an "Asthma Score" based on these elements, offering a nuanced view of the area's strengths and weaknesses. This will allow a more complete understanding of the healthcare environment.

The foundation of asthma care lies in accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. In 28027, this ratio needs careful examination. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to determine the number of PCPs actively practicing within the zip code and the estimated population. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can indicate potential challenges in timely access to appointments and ongoing care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in certain areas, creating "healthcare deserts" for some residents? Geographical analysis, potentially using mapping tools, can reveal these disparities. Furthermore, the types of practices matter. Are there large group practices with diverse specialists, or predominantly solo practitioners? Group practices often offer greater resources, including on-site diagnostic testing and specialized asthma education programs.

Standout practices within 28027 deserve recognition. These practices demonstrate exemplary asthma management. Identifying them involves reviewing patient testimonials, online reviews, and potentially, data on asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and demonstrate a commitment to patient communication should be highlighted. This could involve reviewing the practice’s website and their commitment to asthma management.

Telemedicine adoption significantly impacts asthma care, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. Practices embracing telemedicine can improve access for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited transportation options. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools (like peak flow meters connected to apps), and electronic prescription services. Practices that have embraced these technologies should be noted for their proactive approach.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to asthma management. Asthma, a chronic condition, can contribute to anxiety and depression. Assessing the availability of mental health services within 28027 is crucial. This involves identifying mental health professionals (therapists, psychiatrists) accepting new patients, as well as the availability of support groups and educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of chronic illness. Integration of mental health services into primary care practices can improve outcomes.

The availability of specialized asthma care is another critical factor. While PCPs provide the foundation, access to pulmonologists and allergists is essential for patients with complex or severe asthma. The presence of these specialists within or near 28027, along with their referral processes and wait times, needs evaluation. Access to specialized testing, such as allergy testing and pulmonary function tests, should also be considered.

The quality of asthma education programs is another crucial component. Are there programs that teach patients about asthma triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques? These programs can be offered by healthcare providers, community organizations, or schools. The availability of these programs and their accessibility to diverse populations are important.

Medication access and affordability also influence the asthma score. Are there pharmacies within the zip code that stock a wide range of asthma medications, including both generic and brand-name options? Are there programs to help patients afford their medications, such as patient assistance programs or access to discounted medications? The presence of these resources can improve medication adherence and asthma control.

The overall asthma score will be a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its perceived importance in asthma management. The weights can be adjusted based on the specific needs and priorities of the community. For example, access to mental health services might be weighted more heavily if there is a known prevalence of mental health issues within the population.

This score is not a static number but a dynamic representation of the asthma care landscape. Regular updates, incorporating new data and changes in healthcare delivery, are essential to maintain its relevance. This score can serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The analysis will be specific to 28027. It will identify the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. It will highlight areas for improvement, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine adoption, or enhancing mental health resources. It will also recognize the practices that are excelling in asthma management, providing examples of best practices.

The analysis will also address the availability of asthma-related resources in Concord. This includes the presence of asthma support groups, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives. It will also address the accessibility of these resources to diverse populations, including those with limited English proficiency or those living in underserved areas.

This thorough analysis will provide a more complete picture of asthma care in 28027. It will help to identify the key challenges and opportunities for improving asthma management in the community. This will ultimately lead to better health outcomes for patients with asthma.

The creation of this analysis requires a deep dive into publicly available data. This includes data from the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, and other government agencies. It also involves reviewing patient testimonials, online reviews, and other sources of information. The analysis will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.
This analysis is a starting point. To visualize the data, map the physician locations, and explore the spatial relationships between resources and patient needs, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can transform this data into an interactive and insightful visual representation, allowing for a deeper understanding of the asthma care landscape in Concord, NC.