28327, Carthage, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28327, Carthage, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.58 percent of the residents in 28327 has some form of health insurance. 30.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.02 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 28327 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,924 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28327. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,806 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,043 health care providers accessible to residents in 28327, Carthage, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Carthage, NC (ZIP Code 28327)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality for asthma sufferers in Carthage, North Carolina (ZIP code 28327) requires a multifaceted approach. We'll assess the landscape for physicians, particularly primary care providers, and gauge the availability of resources crucial for managing asthma, including telemedicine and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, offering a glimpse into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system for this specific patient population.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management is consistent access to primary care. In Carthage, the physician-to-patient ratio within the primary care setting is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, research is needed to determine the actual ratio in 28327. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of providers, would negatively impact the Asthma Score. Conversely, a high ratio, suggesting ample access, would positively influence the assessment. Local data, including the number of practicing primary care physicians, the population size, and the average patient load per physician, must be meticulously examined.

Beyond sheer numbers, the types of primary care practices available are significant. Are there solo practitioners, or are there group practices? Larger group practices often offer a wider range of services, including on-site specialists and extended hours, which can be beneficial for asthma patients. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine practices, and pediatricians must be evaluated, as each type of provider contributes to the overall accessibility of care.

Identifying standout practices is essential. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management. This includes practices that have a dedicated asthma educator, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and regularly monitor patient outcomes. These practices often utilize best practices for asthma care, such as spirometry testing and patient education, which can significantly improve patient outcomes and contribute to a higher Asthma Score. Patient reviews and feedback are also valuable in identifying practices that prioritize patient experience and provide excellent care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can be a game-changer for asthma patients. Telemedicine reduces the need for travel, especially during flare-ups, and can improve adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices in Carthage directly influences the Asthma Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, will receive higher marks.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that leads to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health services, including therapy and counseling, is essential for supporting patients. The presence of mental health providers in Carthage, including therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, and their willingness to work with asthma patients, will be considered. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, can significantly improve the Asthma Score.

The availability of specialized asthma care is also a factor. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists and allergists is crucial for patients with more complex asthma cases. The presence of these specialists in or near Carthage and the ease with which patients can access their services will influence the Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment based on a range of factors. It reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care in Carthage. It highlights the strengths of the local healthcare system and identifies areas for improvement. For example, a low physician-to-patient ratio and a lack of telemedicine adoption would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a high ratio, coupled with readily available mental health resources and standout primary care practices, would contribute to a higher score.

The analysis also needs to consider the cost of care. The affordability of healthcare services, including physician visits, medications, and specialist consultations, is a significant factor for asthma patients. High healthcare costs can create barriers to care, leading to poor asthma control and increased hospitalizations.

Finally, the analysis must consider the availability of patient education resources. Asthma education is essential for empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. The presence of educational materials, support groups, and asthma education programs in Carthage can significantly improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Carthage, NC (28327) is a complex evaluation that requires a detailed examination of the local healthcare landscape. This assessment must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the types of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized asthma care. This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system for asthma sufferers in Carthage.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare resources available in Carthage, including the location of physician practices, pharmacies, and other relevant services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to easily identify and compare different healthcare options.