28206, Charlotte, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28206, Charlotte, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.10 percent of the residents in 28206 has some form of health insurance. 41.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.11 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 28206 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,018 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 82 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28206. An estimate of 28 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,318 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 50,369 health care providers accessible to residents in 28206, Charlotte, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Charlotte, NC (ZIP Code 28206) and Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Charlotte, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 28206, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will consider factors impacting asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health support, ultimately providing an "Asthma Score" assessment. This score, though not a formal numerical rating, represents a qualitative evaluation of the resources available to asthma patients in this area.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on access to primary care physicians (PCPs). ZIP code 28206, encompassing a portion of the city's central and southern areas, faces a fluctuating physician-to-patient ratio. While the overall physician density in Charlotte is relatively good compared to other metropolitan areas, specific pockets within 28206 might experience shortages, particularly for PCPs accepting new patients. This can lead to delayed appointments, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing the likelihood of emergency room visits. The availability of pediatricians is also crucial, as asthma is a prevalent childhood illness. A robust network of pediatricians, especially those specializing in pulmonology, significantly improves the asthma care ecosystem.

Within 28206, the characteristics of individual practices play a critical role. Practices that prioritize asthma management, offering comprehensive care plans, patient education, and regular follow-up appointments, will naturally contribute to a higher "Asthma Score." These practices should ideally have dedicated asthma educators, nurses trained in asthma care, and readily available peak flow meters and nebulizers. The ability to perform spirometry in-office is another critical element, enabling timely diagnosis and monitoring of lung function. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking asthma control rates and implementing evidence-based treatment guidelines, are also highly valued.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for asthma management, especially in areas with limited access to in-person care. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices within 28206 directly impacts the "Asthma Score." Practices offering virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., using connected devices to track peak flow or symptom diaries) improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on reliable internet access and patient familiarity with the technology.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized, and its importance in asthma management cannot be overstated. Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The availability of mental health resources within 28206, either integrated within primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals, is a crucial component of the "Asthma Score." Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns, provide counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This support can help patients manage stress, cope with their asthma symptoms, and improve their overall health outcomes.

Standout practices within 28206 often exhibit a combination of the above-mentioned characteristics. They typically have a strong focus on patient education, offering asthma self-management programs and providing patients with the tools and knowledge they need to control their condition. These practices might also participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about asthma and providing education to schools and other organizations. Furthermore, they may actively collaborate with specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. The reputation of these practices within the community, as reflected in patient reviews and testimonials, also contributes to the overall "Asthma Score."

Assessing the "Asthma Score" also requires an understanding of the broader healthcare landscape in Charlotte. The availability of specialist care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is essential for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The presence of hospitals with dedicated asthma clinics and emergency departments equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is another important factor. The accessibility of pharmacies within 28206, offering a wide range of asthma medications and knowledgeable pharmacists, further enhances the care environment.

In summary, the "Asthma Score" for 28206 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the overall physician density in Charlotte may be adequate, specific shortages within the ZIP code, particularly for PCPs accepting new patients, can negatively impact the score. The characteristics of individual practices, including their commitment to asthma management, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources, significantly influence the score. Standout practices, those demonstrating a strong focus on patient education, community outreach, and collaboration with specialists, contribute positively to the overall assessment. The broader healthcare landscape, including the availability of specialist care, hospital resources, and pharmacy access, also plays a crucial role.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Charlotte, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to analyze physician distribution, identify areas with limited access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.