28077, High Shoals, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28077, High Shoals, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.04 percent of the residents in 28077 has some form of health insurance. 74.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.90 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 28077 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 183 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 23 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28077. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 91 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,421 health care providers accessible to residents in 28077, High Shoals, North Carolina.

Analyzing asthma care and primary care accessibility in High Shoals, North Carolina (ZIP code 28077) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. A comprehensive 'Asthma Score' analysis would evaluate these factors to provide a clear picture of the resources available to patients managing asthma and seeking primary care within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. In ZIP code 28077, the number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists, relative to the population size, is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could signal potential access challenges, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hindering timely asthma management. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more personalized care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau would be essential to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratios within this ZIP code. This analysis must also account for the distribution of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, who are crucial for asthma diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of local medical practices significantly impact the quality of asthma care. Standout practices often demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, employing the latest asthma guidelines and treatment protocols. This includes providing comprehensive patient education on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a strong indicator of a patient-centered approach. Furthermore, practices that offer convenient services, such as extended hours or same-day appointments, can improve accessibility and facilitate prompt care for acute asthma exacerbations. The availability of on-site diagnostic testing, such as spirometry, can streamline the diagnostic process and allow for more efficient asthma monitoring.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the 'Asthma Score' analysis. Telehealth, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve asthma management, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that offer telehealth services can provide convenient follow-up appointments, medication refills, and symptom monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with data transmission capabilities, can further empower patients to actively participate in their asthma care and alert their physicians to potential problems early on. The ease of access to telehealth services, including the availability of patient portals and user-friendly technology, is a key consideration.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as an integral part of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma, particularly uncontrolled asthma, can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes screening for mental health conditions, providing support for patients struggling with asthma-related anxiety, and offering resources for managing stress and coping with the challenges of chronic illness. The coordination of care between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is essential for optimal patient outcomes.

The assessment should also consider the availability of ancillary services, such as respiratory therapy, pharmacy services, and access to emergency care. Respiratory therapists play a crucial role in educating patients on proper inhaler technique and providing support during asthma exacerbations. The proximity of pharmacies that stock asthma medications and provide convenient prescription refills is also important. The availability of nearby emergency rooms and urgent care centers that are equipped to handle asthma emergencies is critical for ensuring timely access to care during acute episodes.

To perform a detailed 'Asthma Score' analysis, one would need to gather data from various sources. This includes publicly available information from the North Carolina Medical Board, the US Census Bureau, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It would also involve conducting research to identify and assess the practices within ZIP code 28077. This might involve reviewing practice websites, contacting practices directly, and analyzing patient reviews. The analysis should incorporate a scoring system, assigning points based on factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of ancillary services. The final 'Asthma Score' would provide a comprehensive overview of the quality and accessibility of asthma care in High Shoals.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that impact asthma management. This includes the prevalence of asthma in the local population, the rates of poverty and insurance coverage, and the presence of environmental factors that can trigger asthma symptoms, such as air pollution and allergens. Addressing these factors is essential for ensuring equitable access to asthma care for all residents of High Shoals.

In conclusion, a thorough 'Asthma Score' analysis for doctors in ZIP code 28077 and primary care availability in High Shoals requires a multifaceted evaluation. It necessitates a detailed understanding of physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of local practices, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic factors that influence asthma management. This comprehensive approach will provide a clear picture of the resources available to patients managing asthma and seeking primary care within this specific geographic area. For a visual representation of this data and a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.