28152, Shelby, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28152, Shelby, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.20 percent of the residents in 28152 has some form of health insurance. 41.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.00 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 28152 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,481 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28152. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,338 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,110 health care providers accessible to residents in 28152, Shelby, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Shelby, NC (ZIP Code 28152)

This analysis assesses the quality and accessibility of asthma care within ZIP Code 28152 (Shelby, NC), focusing on primary care availability and related resources. We'll evaluate factors influencing an "Asthma Score," a hypothetical metric reflecting the ease with which residents can access quality asthma management. This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and availability of mental health support, all crucial for effective asthma control.

Shelby, a city in Cleveland County, North Carolina, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Its size and demographics influence the availability and distribution of medical resources. Understanding these nuances is critical to evaluating the asthma care environment. We begin by examining the core of asthma management: access to primary care physicians (PCPs).

The physician-to-patient ratio in Shelby is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, it's essential to research the general trend. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau allows for an estimated ratio. A lower ratio (more patients per physician) can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests potentially better access. This ratio directly impacts the Asthma Score, as timely access to PCPs is paramount for asthma diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing management.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas of Shelby, potentially creating access disparities for residents in other parts of the city? Analyzing the geographic distribution of practices is crucial. This involves considering factors like transportation accessibility and the availability of public transit. The Asthma Score is diminished if access to care is limited by geographic barriers.

Identifying standout practices is another crucial element of the Asthma Score. These practices would ideally demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through several key indicators. They might employ certified asthma educators, offer comprehensive asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs, and actively monitor patient outcomes. They might also participate in quality improvement initiatives focused on asthma care. Researching local practices and gathering patient reviews and testimonials can help identify these high-performing entities. The presence of such practices significantly boosts the Asthma Score, indicating a commitment to excellence in asthma care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including increased access to care, reduced travel time, and improved patient convenience. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management support, significantly improve the Asthma Score. This is especially relevant in a geographically dispersed area like Shelby, where telemedicine can bridge distance and enhance access to specialized care.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical component of the Asthma Score. Asthma, being a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and complicate treatment. Practices that integrate mental health support into their asthma care programs, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external mental health professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration is a vital element of a high Asthma Score, reflecting a commitment to addressing the multifaceted needs of asthma patients.

Assessing the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also crucial. While PCPs are the primary point of contact for asthma management, access to specialists is essential for complex cases and for providing advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The proximity of specialists and the ease with which patients can be referred to them directly impacts the Asthma Score.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score should consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide patients with educational resources, such as brochures, online materials, and group education sessions, empower patients to actively manage their condition. This includes education on proper inhaler technique, environmental control measures, and asthma triggers. Patient education is a fundamental aspect of effective asthma management and directly contributes to a higher Asthma Score.

The affordability of asthma medications and healthcare services is another important consideration. The Asthma Score should reflect the availability of affordable medications, insurance coverage options, and financial assistance programs. The cost of healthcare can be a significant barrier to accessing care, and practices that address affordability concerns demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being.

Finally, the Asthma Score should also account for the presence of community-based resources, such as support groups and asthma awareness programs. These resources provide patients with a sense of community and support, and they promote asthma awareness and education within the community. The availability of these resources contributes to a higher Asthma Score.

In conclusion, evaluating the Asthma Score for Shelby, NC (ZIP Code 28152) requires a comprehensive assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the affordability of care. A high Asthma Score indicates a healthcare environment that effectively supports asthma patients, providing them with timely access to quality care and the resources they need to manage their condition effectively.

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