28137, Richfield, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28137, Richfield, North Carolina is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.03 percent of the residents in 28137 has some form of health insurance. 36.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.11 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 28137 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 664 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28137. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 475 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,921 health care providers accessible to residents in 28137, Richfield, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28137 and Primary Care in Richfield, NC

Analyzing healthcare accessibility, particularly for a condition like asthma, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 28137 (Richfield, North Carolina) to assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, crucial for asthma management. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and investigate the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to an "Asthma Score" assessment.

The foundation of asthma management rests on accessible primary care. In Richfield, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential to calculate this ratio accurately. Public health data is needed to determine the population size within the zip code and cross-reference it with the number of practicing primary care physicians.

Standout practices are those that demonstrably excel in asthma care. This requires looking beyond the raw number of physicians. We must consider the practices' commitment to asthma-specific protocols. Do they utilize standardized asthma action plans? Do they offer patient education programs on triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique? Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and implementing evidence-based strategies, should receive higher marks. Reviews from patients, though subjective, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption in Richfield is a key indicator. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms (e.g., peak flow meter readings), and medication refills through online portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. Telemedicine can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Researching the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices is crucial.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and conversely, the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. The "Asthma Score" must therefore consider the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals. Do primary care practices offer on-site counseling services or have established partnerships with mental health providers? Are patients screened for anxiety and depression? The integration of mental health support is a vital component of holistic asthma care.

Evaluating the overall "Asthma Score" for Richfield requires a weighted approach. Physician-to-patient ratio contributes significantly, but is not the sole factor. The presence of asthma-specific protocols, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration are all essential components. A practice with a slightly higher physician-to-patient ratio might still earn a higher score if it excels in other areas, such as patient education and telehealth services.

To assess physician-to-patient ratios, one must consult publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size provides the initial data. This figure is then compared to national and state averages to determine if Richfield falls above, below, or within the expected range.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. Contacting local healthcare providers directly, reviewing their websites, and searching patient testimonials can provide valuable insights. Asking targeted questions, such as their use of asthma action plans, patient education materials, and participation in quality improvement programs, will help differentiate between practices.

The adoption of telemedicine can be assessed by examining practice websites and contacting the offices directly. Inquiring about the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online portals for medication refills will provide a clear picture of their telemedicine capabilities. The integration of mental health resources can be evaluated by reviewing practice websites and contacting the offices directly. Inquiring about on-site counseling services, partnerships with mental health providers, and screening protocols for anxiety and depression will reveal the level of mental health support offered.

The "Asthma Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the integration of mental health services. This ongoing evaluation ensures that patients in Richfield have access to the best possible asthma care.

The availability of mental health services is a crucial aspect of asthma management. Asthma can be a stressful condition, and the emotional toll can exacerbate symptoms. The presence of mental health resources, whether within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referrals, significantly enhances the overall quality of care. Practices that screen for anxiety and depression and provide counseling services or referrals to mental health professionals should receive higher scores.

The quality of asthma care is not solely determined by the number of physicians. Patient education, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the integration of technology all play critical roles. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide individualized asthma action plans, and utilize telemedicine to monitor symptoms and manage medications are better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

The analysis of primary care availability in Richfield provides a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape. By assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and investigating mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to asthma patients. This information can be used to inform healthcare decisions, advocate for improved services, and ultimately, enhance the quality of life for individuals living with asthma in Richfield.

To visualize and analyze this data more effectively, and to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to identify patterns, trends, and disparities in healthcare access within Richfield and beyond.