28104, Matthews, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28104, Matthews, North Carolina is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.47 percent of the residents in 28104 has some form of health insurance. 20.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.68 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 28104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,715 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28104. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,320 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,271 health care providers accessible to residents in 28104, Matthews, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Matthews, NC (ZIP Code 28104)

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care in Matthews, North Carolina (ZIP code 28104) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. The score will incorporate physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective asthma management.

The initial assessment involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. While publicly available data provides population estimates, determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists actively practicing within 28104 requires more granular data. A higher physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care, but it's not the sole determinant of quality. We need to consider the specialization of physicians, the availability of appointments, and the ability of patients to establish a strong patient-physician relationship. This data will be crucial in understanding the baseline accessibility of care.

Furthermore, the analysis must identify standout practices within the community. This involves researching practices known for their expertise in asthma management. These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered approach, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and proactive management strategies. Identifying practices with specialized asthma clinics, offering comprehensive pulmonary function testing, and employing certified asthma educators would significantly boost the "Asthma Score." These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, which is critical for self-management and improved outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in modern healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Assessing the availability of telemedicine options among primary care physicians and specialists in 28104 is essential. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically underserved areas. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and medication management through telehealth platforms would receive a higher score. This adaptability demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care.

Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma care strategy. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals specializing in respiratory conditions, will contribute positively to the "Asthma Score." This integration of mental health services demonstrates a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The analysis will also consider the availability of after-hours care and emergency services. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and prompt access to care is crucial. Practices offering extended hours, on-call physicians, or affiliations with urgent care facilities will be viewed favorably. The proximity to emergency rooms equipped to handle asthma-related emergencies also contributes to the overall score. Access to rapid and efficient care during critical episodes is paramount for patient safety and long-term health.

The "Asthma Score" for Matthews (28104) is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. This analysis will consider the availability of patient education materials, support groups, and community outreach programs. Practices actively involved in educating patients about asthma triggers, medication management, and self-management techniques will receive a higher score. Community engagement, such as participating in local health fairs or offering asthma-related workshops, further strengthens the score.

The quality of asthma care is also influenced by the availability of specialized equipment. The presence of pulmonary function testing (PFT) equipment, such as spirometers and bronchodilator challenge testing capabilities, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of asthma. Practices equipped with these tools contribute to a more comprehensive and effective approach to asthma management. The availability of these resources directly impacts the ability to accurately assess lung function and tailor treatment plans.

The "Asthma Score" will also take into account the insurance acceptance policies of the practices. The ability of patients to access care is often dependent on their insurance coverage. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, will contribute positively to the score. This consideration ensures that care is accessible to a diverse patient population, regardless of their financial circumstances.

The analysis will also consider the use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate efficient communication between healthcare providers, improve care coordination, and enable better tracking of patient progress. Practices utilizing EHRs, particularly those with integrated asthma management tools, will receive a higher score. This technological integration streamlines workflows and improves the overall efficiency of care delivery.

Finally, the "Asthma Score" will incorporate patient feedback. Gathering patient reviews and testimonials provides valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices with positive patient feedback, reflecting satisfaction with the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience, will receive a higher score. This patient-centered approach is essential for continuous improvement and optimal outcomes.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of asthma care in Matthews, NC (28104) requires a detailed analysis of various factors. This "Asthma Score" framework considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other crucial elements. To gain a visual understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and potential gaps in care within Matthews and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. Leverage the insights of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing a comprehensive understanding of the landscape of asthma care in your community.