28107, Midland, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28107, Midland, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.86 percent of the residents in 28107 has some form of health insurance. 17.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.28 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 28107 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,257 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28107. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,022 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,429 health care providers accessible to residents in 28107, Midland, North Carolina.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacts the quality of life for millions. Effective management hinges on access to quality healthcare, particularly from primary care physicians. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 28107 (Midland, North Carolina) and the broader context of primary care availability in Midland. We'll explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and consider the integration of mental health resources, providing a comprehensive ‘Asthma Score’ assessment.

The foundation of asthma care lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Midland, a critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reflects the number of patients each doctor is responsible for, directly influencing appointment availability and the time dedicated to each patient. A high ratio can lead to longer wait times, rushed appointments, and potentially, inadequate care. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into this ratio. However, it's crucial to note that these figures may not always reflect the specific focus on asthma care within a practice. A practice might have a favorable ratio overall but a limited capacity for asthma patients.

Standout practices in Midland, those excelling in asthma management, often demonstrate several key characteristics. They likely employ certified asthma educators, nurses or respiratory therapists trained in asthma management, and patient education. These practices typically have robust asthma action plans, individualized for each patient, outlining daily medication regimens, triggers to avoid, and steps to take during an asthma exacerbation. They also frequently utilize spirometry, a lung function test, to monitor disease control and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Furthermore, these practices actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about asthma and providing educational resources.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of asthma care. Telehealth, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, offers significant advantages, especially for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. It can improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can also facilitate more frequent check-ins, allowing for early intervention and preventing exacerbations. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including patient access to technology, digital literacy, and the physician's comfort level with virtual platforms. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma care models often have dedicated telehealth staff, clear protocols for virtual visits, and secure platforms for patient data.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and asthma is gaining recognition. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Conversely, mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial. This may involve screening for mental health conditions, providing on-site counseling services, or establishing referral pathways to mental health specialists. Practices that prioritize mental health awareness and offer integrated services are better equipped to provide comprehensive asthma care.

To generate a comprehensive ‘Asthma Score’ for doctors in ZIP code 28107, several factors must be considered. First, physician-to-patient ratios within the area should be evaluated, comparing them to regional and national averages. Second, the presence of asthma-specific resources, such as certified asthma educators and spirometry capabilities, should be assessed. Third, the adoption and utilization of telemedicine platforms for asthma management must be examined. Fourth, the integration of mental health resources, including screening and referral pathways, should be evaluated. Finally, patient satisfaction scores, if available, should be considered. Each of these factors can be assigned a weighted score, and then combined to create an overall rating.

The availability of primary care in Midland, as a whole, also needs to be assessed. This includes the total number of primary care physicians, their geographic distribution, and the accessibility of their services. Factors such as insurance acceptance, office hours, and appointment availability all play a role. The presence of urgent care clinics and specialty practices that can provide asthma care are also significant. Furthermore, the availability of pharmacies and access to affordable medications are essential components of effective asthma management.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care in Midland requires a multifaceted approach. It involves examining physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the resources available within individual practices, and considering the integration of telemedicine and mental health services. A comprehensive ‘Asthma Score’ should reflect these factors, providing a valuable tool for patients seeking quality asthma care.

Want to visualize the data, compare practices, and see a detailed map of healthcare resources in Midland? CartoChrome Maps can help you navigate the landscape of healthcare providers. Explore the interactive maps, filter by specialty, and discover the best options for your asthma care needs.