28412, Wilmington, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.33 percent of the residents in 28412 has some form of health insurance. 33.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.15 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 28412 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,627 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28412. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,928 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Wilmington, NC (ZIP Code 28412)

Analyzing asthma care within Wilmington, North Carolina's 28412 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support – all crucial components of a comprehensive asthma management strategy. The goal is to assess the current state of care and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of accessible asthma care lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Wilmington, and specifically within 28412, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit appointment availability. While precise, real-time ratios fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from professional medical organizations, allows for an estimation. A concerningly high ratio necessitates strategies to alleviate the burden, such as expanding the workforce through recruitment incentives or promoting the utilization of advanced practice providers (APPs), like nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can deliver a significant portion of asthma care.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the 28412 ZIP code is also important. Are physicians clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Geographic disparities in access to care can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those with asthma. This necessitates a careful examination of practice locations and the demographics they serve.

Several primary care practices in the Wilmington area demonstrate noteworthy qualities in their approach to asthma management. Practices that integrate asthma-specific protocols, such as standardized assessment tools and individualized action plans, are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that proactively educate patients on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique are crucial. These practices often distinguish themselves through patient testimonials and positive online reviews, reflecting a commitment to patient-centered care.

Telemedicine adoption has significantly reshaped healthcare delivery, and its role in asthma management is particularly relevant. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased accessibility for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Virtual consultations can facilitate medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, providing both synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous (store-and-forward) options, demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care. The effectiveness of telemedicine, however, hinges on reliable internet access and patient digital literacy, particularly in underserved communities.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, potentially exacerbating symptoms and hindering adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and offer referrals to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health specialists is essential for providing coordinated and effective care. The availability of on-site behavioral health specialists or partnerships with local mental health providers can significantly enhance the quality of care.

Furthermore, the integration of community resources is crucial. Asthma education programs offered by local hospitals, clinics, or community health centers can empower patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their condition effectively. Support groups and peer-to-peer networks can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. Practices that actively promote and connect patients with these resources demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care.

Evaluating the quality of asthma care also involves assessing the use of evidence-based guidelines. Practices that adhere to national guidelines for asthma management, such as those published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), are more likely to provide optimal care. This includes the appropriate use of medications, regular monitoring of lung function, and the development of individualized asthma action plans. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate adherence to guidelines by providing prompts and reminders for clinicians.

The effectiveness of asthma care can be measured by several metrics. These include the frequency of asthma exacerbations (e.g., emergency room visits and hospitalizations), the use of rescue medications, and the overall quality of life for patients. Practices that track these metrics and use them to continuously improve their care delivery processes are demonstrating a commitment to quality improvement. Patient satisfaction surveys and feedback mechanisms are also essential for understanding the patient experience and identifying areas for improvement.

In conclusion, the assessment of asthma care within the 28412 ZIP code reveals a complex landscape. The physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the use of evidence-based guidelines all contribute to the overall quality of care. While specific practices may stand out in certain areas, a comprehensive evaluation requires a multifaceted approach. Continuous monitoring and improvement efforts are essential to ensure that individuals with asthma receive the best possible care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of primary care practices, analyze physician-to-patient ratios, and identify areas with the greatest need for asthma resources, explore the power of spatial data visualization. Consider using CartoChrome maps to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within the 28412 ZIP code and beyond.