28134, Pineville, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28134, Pineville, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.22 percent of the residents in 28134 has some form of health insurance. 34.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.49 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 28134 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,274 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28134. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,782 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,019 health care providers accessible to residents in 28134, Pineville, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Pineville, NC (ZIP Code 28134)**

The task involves a comprehensive assessment of asthma care within Pineville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28134), focusing on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the quality of care, and related resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" based on various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial components of effective asthma management.

Pineville, a rapidly growing suburb of Charlotte, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Its demographic profile includes a mix of families, young professionals, and a growing senior population. This diversity influences the demand for primary care and asthma-specific services. The presence of major healthcare systems, alongside independent practices, contributes to a competitive environment, potentially benefiting patients.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care**

A fundamental aspect of asthma care is the accessibility of PCPs. The physician-to-patient ratio in 28134 serves as a critical indicator. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other public health sources are essential to determine the exact ratio. However, the mere presence of physicians doesn't guarantee accessibility. Factors such as insurance acceptance, appointment wait times, and office hours also play a significant role. Practices accepting a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, are particularly important for a diverse population.

The proximity of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is another consideration. While PCPs often manage asthma, specialized care is often needed. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable driving distance enhances the overall quality of asthma care. The presence of urgent care facilities, open during evenings and weekends, can also provide crucial support for asthma exacerbations, preventing unnecessary emergency room visits.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the use of evidence-based guidelines for asthma management, patient satisfaction scores, and the implementation of asthma education programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing education on inhaler techniques, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans, are often associated with better outcomes.

Electronic health records (EHRs) are crucial for tracking patient data, including medication adherence, symptom control, and exacerbation frequency. Practices with robust EHR systems can better monitor patient progress and tailor treatment plans accordingly. Accreditation by organizations such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or other quality-focused entities often signifies a commitment to high standards of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in asthma management, especially for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited transportation options. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of symptoms, allowing physicians to proactively intervene if needed.

The integration of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and symptom trackers, can further enhance telemedicine's effectiveness. These devices allow patients to actively participate in their care and provide physicians with valuable data between in-person visits. The adoption of telemedicine, however, also requires careful consideration of patient privacy and data security.

**Mental Health Resources and Asthma Management**

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and vice versa. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that screen for mental health issues and offer on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is essential for coordinating care and ensuring that patients receive the support they need. Educational programs that address the psychological aspects of asthma can also be beneficial. The presence of support groups or online resources for asthma patients and their families can further enhance mental well-being.

**Asthma Score Calculation and Overall Assessment**

The "Asthma Score" for Pineville, NC (28134) would be determined by assigning weights to each of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, access to specialists, and availability of urgent care facilities would contribute to an "Access" score. The quality of care, including the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient satisfaction, and EHR systems, would contribute to a "Quality" score. The adoption of telemedicine and remote monitoring would contribute to a "Technology" score. The availability of mental health resources and the integration of mental health services would contribute to a "Mental Health" score.

The overall "Asthma Score" would be a composite of these sub-scores, providing a comprehensive assessment of asthma care in the area. Based on preliminary research, Pineville appears to have a moderately favorable environment for asthma care. The presence of a diverse healthcare system, including both large hospital systems and independent practices, offers patients a choice. However, further investigation is needed to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by individual practices, and the extent of telemedicine adoption.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of asthma care in Pineville, NC (28134). The "Asthma Score" is a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. For a more detailed and visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare resources in your area.