28213, Charlotte, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28213, Charlotte, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.00 percent of the residents in 28213 has some form of health insurance. 26.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.17 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 28213 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,705 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 83 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28213. An estimate of 68 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,876 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 57,993 health care providers accessible to residents in 28213, Charlotte, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28213 & Primary Care in Charlotte

Analyzing asthma care within ZIP code 28213, located in Charlotte, requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. The goal is to assess the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to individuals managing asthma, a chronic respiratory condition. This analysis will also consider the broader context of primary care availability in Charlotte, as primary care physicians (PCPs) often play a crucial role in asthma management.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 28213 is a foundational element. While a simple count of doctors doesn't tell the whole story, understanding the number of PCPs and pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) per 1,000 residents provides a baseline. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can signal potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. Furthermore, the distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code is crucial. Are they clustered in specific areas, leaving other parts of 28213 underserved? This geographical disparity impacts access, particularly for individuals with limited transportation options or those living in areas with socioeconomic disadvantages.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of care delivered by these doctors is paramount. This encompasses several aspects. Does the practice utilize evidence-based guidelines for asthma management, such as those established by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Are patients provided with personalized asthma action plans, detailing how to manage their condition during flare-ups? Does the practice offer patient education resources, empowering individuals to understand their triggers, medications, and self-management techniques? The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) also plays a role, enabling better communication between healthcare providers and improved tracking of patient progress.

Identifying standout practices within 28213 can highlight best practices and serve as models for improvement. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. They might have dedicated asthma educators, offering one-on-one counseling and group classes. They may also participate in quality improvement initiatives, regularly reviewing patient outcomes and adjusting their approach to optimize care. Furthermore, these practices often proactively address social determinants of health, recognizing that factors like housing instability, food insecurity, and exposure to environmental pollutants can significantly impact asthma control.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect to evaluate. The ability to access care remotely, through video consultations or phone calls, can be particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups or medication adjustments. It can also improve access for individuals living in areas with limited physician availability or those with mobility challenges. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires reliable internet access and digital literacy among both patients and providers.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma care, but they are essential. Asthma can significantly impact quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Does the practice offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Integrating mental health support into asthma management can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. This includes providing resources for stress management and coping strategies, which can help individuals better manage their asthma symptoms.

Primary care availability in Charlotte, beyond the confines of 28213, significantly impacts asthma care. Many individuals with asthma rely on their PCPs for ongoing management. The overall availability of PCPs in Charlotte, including wait times for appointments and the acceptance of new patients, influences the ability of residents in 28213 to access timely and consistent care. Furthermore, the coordination of care between PCPs and pulmonologists is crucial. Effective communication and collaboration between these specialists ensure that patients receive the appropriate level of care and avoid unnecessary delays in diagnosis or treatment.

The socioeconomic landscape of 28213 also influences asthma care. Factors such as poverty, housing quality, and exposure to environmental hazards can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving asthma outcomes. This may involve connecting patients with resources for affordable housing, addressing mold and other allergens in homes, and advocating for policies that reduce air pollution.

Finally, assessing the patient experience is essential. Gathering feedback from individuals with asthma can provide valuable insights into the quality of care they are receiving. This could involve patient satisfaction surveys, focus groups, or online reviews. Understanding patient perspectives can help identify areas for improvement and ensure that care is patient-centered and responsive to individual needs.

For a comprehensive visualization of the healthcare landscape in 28213 and Charlotte, including physician locations, patient demographics, and environmental factors, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the complex interplay of factors influencing asthma care and identifying opportunities for improvement.