28150, Shelby, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28150, Shelby, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 28150 has some form of health insurance. 47.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.28 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 28150 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,501 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28150. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,973 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 949 health care providers accessible to residents in 28150, Shelby, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Shelby, NC (ZIP Code 28150)

The city of Shelby, North Carolina, nestled within ZIP code 28150, presents a complex landscape when assessing asthma care and primary care accessibility. This analysis, aiming to provide an "Asthma Score," delves into the availability of physicians, the state of primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial factors in managing asthma effectively. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, ultimately informing patients and healthcare providers alike.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental step. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, directly impacts the ability of asthma sufferers to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, rural areas often face shortages. Shelby, being a smaller city, likely experiences a lower ratio compared to larger metropolitan areas. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions and exacerbating asthma symptoms. It is crucial to assess the number of pulmonologists and allergists specifically serving the 28150 area to understand the specialist access available to the local population.

Primary care availability in Shelby is a critical component of asthma management. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact, providing initial diagnoses, prescribing medications, and coordinating care. The presence of a robust primary care network is essential for ensuring that patients have access to routine check-ups, medication refills, and education on asthma triggers and management strategies. The availability of after-hours or weekend clinics is also a factor, as asthma exacerbations can occur at any time. Assessing the number of primary care practices accepting new patients, the range of insurance plans accepted, and the availability of same-day appointments are vital metrics.

Identifying standout practices within Shelby is crucial. Practices that prioritize asthma management often implement evidence-based guidelines, offer patient education programs, and foster strong patient-physician relationships. These practices might have dedicated asthma educators, offer spirometry testing on-site, and actively monitor patient outcomes. Researching patient reviews and feedback can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by different practices. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and patient-centered care should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, and its impact on asthma management is significant. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine can facilitate medication management, symptom monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among Shelby practices, including the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients is essential. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and potentially improve patient outcomes.

The integration of mental health resources is another important aspect of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The presence of mental health services within primary care practices or readily available referral pathways is crucial. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, within the 28150 area, and evaluating the integration of mental health services into asthma management protocols are essential. Practices that recognize the link between asthma and mental health and provide appropriate support can improve patient outcomes.

The "Asthma Score" for Shelby, NC (28150) is a composite of these factors. It is a dynamic measure that requires ongoing evaluation and refinement. The score would be lower if the physician-to-patient ratio is unfavorable, primary care availability is limited, telemedicine adoption is minimal, and mental health resources are scarce. Conversely, the score would be higher if there is an adequate supply of physicians, accessible primary care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. The score would also consider the presence of patient education programs, asthma-specific protocols, and practices that actively monitor patient outcomes.

The analysis reveals a need for continuous improvement. Addressing physician shortages, enhancing primary care access, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health resources are all crucial steps toward improving asthma care in Shelby. The development of a comprehensive asthma management program, involving collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and patients, is essential. This program should focus on patient education, early intervention, and ongoing monitoring.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shelby, including the geographic distribution of physicians, the location of primary care practices, and the availability of specialized services, explore the power of visual data.

**Click here to explore the healthcare landscape in Shelby, NC (28150) and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing asthma care using interactive maps from CartoChrome.**