28379, Rockingham, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.98 percent of the residents in 28379 has some form of health insurance. 51.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.75 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 28379 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,451 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28379. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,503 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 670 health care providers accessible to residents in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28379 and Primary Care in Rockingham

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 28379 and the broader context of primary care availability in Rockingham, North Carolina, to assess the existing landscape and identify areas for improvement. An “Asthma Score” isn't a standardized metric; therefore, this analysis will evaluate key factors contributing to effective asthma management within the specified geographic parameters. These factors include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which directly impact a patient's ability to manage their condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. In ZIP code 28379, which encompasses the city of Rockingham and surrounding areas, determining the exact ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. However, based on general trends in rural areas, it's reasonable to assume that the ratio is likely less favorable than in more urban centers. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care. This can be particularly detrimental for asthma patients who require regular check-ups and medication adjustments. The challenge is compounded by the fact that Rockingham, as a relatively small city, might experience difficulties attracting and retaining specialists, including pulmonologists, who are crucial in managing severe asthma cases. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants can partially mitigate this issue, but their scope of practice is often limited compared to that of a fully licensed physician.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 28379 necessitates a review of patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially, publicly available quality metrics. Practices excelling in asthma care often demonstrate several key characteristics. First, they should have a clear asthma management protocol, including standardized diagnostic procedures, individualized treatment plans, and patient education materials. Second, these practices typically employ certified asthma educators who can provide patients with the skills and knowledge needed to self-manage their condition effectively. Third, they prioritize patient communication, offering readily available appointment slots and responsive communication channels. Finally, they often participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking their patients' outcomes and making adjustments to their practices based on the data. Locating and assessing such practices is essential for asthma patients in the area, providing a benchmark for the quality of care available.

The adoption of telemedicine presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma management in Rockingham. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital education, can overcome geographical barriers and enhance access to care, especially for patients with chronic conditions. For asthma patients, telemedicine can facilitate medication refills, symptom monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that have embraced telemedicine often offer convenient options for patients, such as virtual appointments through secure video platforms, remote monitoring devices that track lung function, and online patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with their care teams. The availability of telemedicine, particularly for medication management and symptom monitoring, can significantly reduce the burden on patients and improve their overall quality of life.

Mental health resources are another critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma is often associated with anxiety and depression, which can exacerbate symptoms and negatively impact adherence to treatment plans. Access to mental health services, including therapy and medication management, is essential for addressing these co-occurring conditions. Ideally, practices in Rockingham should have established referral pathways to mental health providers, either within their own organization or through external partnerships. This integration of mental health services into asthma care can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable social support and peer-to-peer learning opportunities for patients.

The effectiveness of asthma management also hinges on the availability of resources beyond the direct provision of medical care. This includes access to affordable medications, respiratory therapists, and social support services. Pharmacies within ZIP code 28379 should offer a wide range of asthma medications, including both generic and brand-name options, and pharmacists should be knowledgeable about asthma medications and their proper use. Respiratory therapists can provide valuable education on inhaler techniques and breathing exercises. Social support services, such as assistance with transportation to medical appointments and financial assistance for medication costs, can alleviate some of the practical challenges that asthma patients face.

Furthermore, the broader healthcare ecosystem in Rockingham plays a role in asthma management. This includes the availability of emergency services, such as urgent care clinics and hospitals, that can provide prompt treatment for asthma exacerbations. The presence of community health initiatives, such as asthma education programs and home visiting programs, can also contribute to improved patient outcomes. The coordination of care among different healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency room staff, is essential for ensuring seamless and effective asthma management.

Analyzing the "Asthma Score" requires a holistic evaluation of the factors discussed. While a quantitative score is difficult to assign without specific data, the qualitative assessment reveals areas of strength and weakness. The challenges in Rockingham, like many rural areas, include potential limitations in physician-to-patient ratios, the need for increased telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. The presence of standout practices, the availability of community resources, and the overall coordination of care are crucial for improving the "Asthma Score."

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rockingham and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive visualization of physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data points within ZIP code 28379 and the surrounding areas. This can facilitate a more informed assessment of healthcare access and identify potential areas for improvement.