28342, Falcon, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28342, Falcon, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 54.42 percent of the residents in 28342 has some form of health insurance. 17.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.58 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 28342 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28342. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,616 health care providers accessible to residents in 28342, Falcon, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Falcon, NC (ZIP Code 28342)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 28342, encompassing the town of Falcon, North Carolina. We'll examine physician access, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare tools, culminating in a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment. This score, though not a formal metric, reflects the overall accessibility and quality of care available to individuals managing asthma within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on readily available primary care. In Falcon, the assessment begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is crucial. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to routine check-ups, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Analyzing this ratio requires data from various sources, including the North Carolina Medical Board and patient population demographics. The ideal ratio varies depending on the population's needs, but a higher ratio, indicating a greater availability of primary care physicians, generally translates to a more favorable asthma care environment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the types of practices available in Falcon are significant. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger, multi-specialty groups? Larger groups often offer advantages, such as extended hours, on-site specialists (like pulmonologists), and access to a broader range of diagnostic and treatment options. The presence of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists within a reasonable driving distance is a key indicator of a strong asthma care network. The availability of these specialists is a critical component of the Asthma Score, as they provide specialized expertise in managing complex asthma cases.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption rate within Falcon’s medical community significantly influences the Asthma Score. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations can provide greater convenience, reduce travel time for patients, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of asthma symptoms. The availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices (like peak flow meters that transmit data), and online patient portals all contribute to a higher score. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and accessibility.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to asthma management. The chronic nature of asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is a crucial factor in the Asthma Score. Practices that integrate mental health screening, provide counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care, leading to a higher score. This integration is particularly important for patients who may experience exacerbations triggered by stress or anxiety.

Specific practice examples within ZIP code 28342 can significantly impact the Asthma Score. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma care is essential. This includes practices that have implemented asthma action plans, offer patient education programs, and actively monitor patient outcomes. Practices that have achieved recognition for their asthma management programs, such as through the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), would be considered standout practices and would positively influence the score. These practices serve as models for others, raising the overall standard of care in the community.

Another factor is the availability of educational resources. Do practices offer asthma education classes? Are there readily available written materials, online resources, or support groups for asthma patients and their families? Practices that prioritize patient education empower individuals to take control of their asthma, leading to better outcomes. The presence of these resources is a key indicator of a proactive and patient-focused approach to care.

The Asthma Score also considers the accessibility of prescription medications. The availability of pharmacies within Falcon and the ease with which patients can obtain their asthma medications are crucial. Practices that work closely with pharmacies to ensure timely refills and medication adherence contribute to a higher score. Furthermore, the affordability of medications, including the availability of patient assistance programs, is a significant factor.

Analyzing data on hospital readmission rates for asthma exacerbations provides valuable insights. A lower readmission rate indicates effective asthma management and control. This data, when available, is a critical indicator of the overall quality of care within the community. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventing hospitalizations through proactive management strategies contribute to a higher score.

The Asthma Score for Falcon (ZIP Code 28342) is a multifaceted assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the types of practices available, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, the availability of educational materials, the accessibility of medications, and hospital readmission rates. While a definitive numerical score cannot be assigned without comprehensive data collection, the factors discussed provide a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of asthma care within this specific geographic area.

By using these data points, and by examining the resources available within the community, a more accurate picture of asthma care can be built. This analysis can be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, leading to improvements in the overall quality of care for individuals managing asthma in Falcon, North Carolina.

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