28411, Wilmington, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28411, Wilmington, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.04 percent of the residents in 28411 has some form of health insurance. 27.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.00 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 28411 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,637 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28411. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,615 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,977 health care providers accessible to residents in 28411, Wilmington, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28411)**

The health landscape within Wilmington, North Carolina, specifically within the 28411 ZIP code, presents a multifaceted picture when considering asthma management and primary care access. Analyzing the availability and quality of care requires examining several interconnected factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" perspective, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure within this specific area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment for conditions like asthma. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and require constant updates, data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide estimates. These estimates, combined with information about physician specialization (e.g., pulmonologists, allergists, and general practitioners) are essential. Within 28411, the availability of specialists, particularly those focused on respiratory health, is a critical component of asthma care. A lower specialist-to-patient ratio could necessitate travel to other areas of Wilmington or even outside the city for specialized treatment, impacting the Asthma Score negatively.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in asthma care, can significantly influence the overall quality of care within the 28411 ZIP code. These practices might be identified through patient reviews, peer recommendations, and metrics such as patient outcomes, adherence to asthma guidelines, and utilization of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs for patients and families, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and provide coordinated care with specialists are particularly noteworthy. The presence of such practices elevates the Asthma Score, providing a model for other providers and improving the overall standard of care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in areas with geographical limitations or accessibility challenges. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication management through telehealth platforms can improve asthma management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and even asthma education sessions, are contributing positively to the Asthma Score. Telemedicine can bridge the gap in access for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in more remote areas within the ZIP code.

The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is another critical aspect. Asthma is often associated with anxiety and depression, and these conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact treatment adherence. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, are enhancing the Asthma Score. Integrated care, where mental health professionals collaborate with pulmonologists and primary care physicians, is particularly beneficial. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care addressing both their physical and emotional well-being.

Primary care availability in Wilmington, and specifically within the 28411 ZIP code, is directly linked to asthma management. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnoses, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating referrals to specialists. The availability of PCPs, including their ability to accept new patients, is a key factor. Areas with a shortage of PCPs may experience increased wait times, difficulty accessing timely care, and potentially, a decline in asthma control. The Asthma Score is significantly impacted by the ease with which patients can access a PCP for regular check-ups and management of their asthma.

Specific practices within the 28411 ZIP code should be evaluated based on their adherence to asthma guidelines, their patient satisfaction ratings, and their utilization of technology. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, manage medications, and facilitate communication between healthcare providers are generally associated with better asthma outcomes. Furthermore, practices that have implemented patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and request appointments online, are contributing to improved patient engagement and self-management of asthma.

The assessment of asthma management within the 28411 ZIP code must also consider the demographics of the population. Factors such as socioeconomic status, race, and ethnicity can influence asthma prevalence and severity. Disparities in access to care, environmental factors, and health literacy can contribute to poorer asthma outcomes in certain populations. Healthcare providers in the area should be evaluated on their efforts to address health disparities and provide culturally competent care. This includes offering services in multiple languages, providing education materials tailored to different cultural backgrounds, and addressing social determinants of health that may impact asthma control.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for physicians and primary care availability in the 28411 ZIP code is a complex evaluation. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of the local population's demographics and health needs. The availability of specialists, the adoption of telehealth, and the integration of mental health services are critical factors in determining the quality of asthma care. Practices that prioritize patient education, adhere to evidence-based guidelines, and address health disparities are likely to contribute positively to the Asthma Score.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, NC, and to explore the geographical distribution of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. They offer interactive visualizations of healthcare data, enabling you to explore physician locations, primary care access points, and other relevant factors.