28373, Pinebluff, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28373, Pinebluff, North Carolina is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.06 percent of the residents in 28373 has some form of health insurance. 31.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.84 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 28373 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 628 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28373. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 484 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,182 health care providers accessible to residents in 28373, Pinebluff, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Pinebluff, NC (ZIP Code 28373)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Pinebluff, North Carolina (ZIP code 28373) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an “Asthma Score,” considers several key factors, including physician density, primary care accessibility, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of managing a chronic respiratory condition. While a definitive numerical score is beyond the scope of this text, we can evaluate the landscape and identify areas of strength and weakness.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. Within ZIP code 28373, the presence of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists directly impacts asthma management. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially, poorer asthma control. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio in this specific ZIP code is crucial. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau would provide the necessary figures. This data would then be compared against national or state averages to assess the relative availability of physicians.

Primary care availability is a critical component of asthma care. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for asthma patients, providing diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. In Pinebluff, the proximity of primary care practices to residents is paramount. Factors to consider include the geographic distribution of clinics, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments for acute asthma exacerbations. The ease of scheduling appointments, the average wait times, and the ability of practices to accommodate patients with disabilities are also relevant.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care often exhibit specific characteristics. These may include: employing certified asthma educators, offering patient education materials, utilizing standardized asthma action plans, and regularly monitoring patient outcomes. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on reducing asthma-related hospitalizations or emergency room visits, would also be considered exemplary. Reviews from patients and the availability of after-hours care are also important factors.

The adoption of telemedicine is becoming increasingly significant in healthcare, and its impact on asthma management is considerable. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication refills, and the monitoring of patients' symptoms, potentially improving access to care, especially for those in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services, including video consultations and remote monitoring devices, within Pinebluff's primary care practices and pulmonology clinics is a critical factor. The ease of use of these platforms, the technical support offered to patients, and the integration of telehealth data into the patient's electronic health record are also important considerations.

Asthma is often associated with mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. These conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact treatment adherence. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a crucial element of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, as well as support groups and educational programs. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices and pulmonology clinics, perhaps through on-site therapists or referral networks, can improve patient outcomes.

Further investigation into the specific insurance coverage accepted by local providers is also critical. The accessibility of affordable asthma medications, inhalers, and other necessary supplies is a significant factor in managing the condition. Analyzing the formulary coverage of the most common insurance plans in the area, and the availability of patient assistance programs for those with limited financial resources, is essential.

Evaluating the overall "Asthma Score" requires considering the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a sufficient number of physicians, accessible primary care, innovative telemedicine options, integrated mental health resources, and readily available affordable medications. Conversely, a low score would suggest significant challenges in accessing and managing asthma care. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for policies and programs that enhance the quality of life for asthma patients in Pinebluff.

The availability of public transportation options, and their accessibility to medical facilities, is also a factor. For patients without personal transportation, reliable access to medical appointments is essential. This includes the availability of public transportation routes, and the presence of accessible parking and drop-off zones at medical facilities.

Finally, the degree of community awareness regarding asthma, and the availability of educational programs and resources, is a contributing factor. Public health initiatives that promote asthma awareness, provide education on asthma triggers, and offer training on proper inhaler technique, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pinebluff and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic accessibility, and areas of high asthma prevalence, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can offer a visual representation of these factors, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.