28423, Bolton, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28423, Bolton, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.58 percent of the residents in 28423 has some form of health insurance. 50.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.71 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 28423 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 552 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28423. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 597 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,216 health care providers accessible to residents in 28423, Bolton, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28423 & Bolton Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within ZIP Code 28423, encompassing the town of Burgaw, North Carolina, and specifically examining primary care availability in the nearby community of Bolton, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score" assessment, considers factors crucial for asthma management, including physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health services, all vital for effective patient care. The score, though not a quantifiable number, will highlight strengths and weaknesses, guiding recommendations for improvement.

The foundation of asthma management rests on accessible primary care. Bolton, as a rural community, often faces challenges in this area. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio indicates a scarcity of providers, potentially leading to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and reduced access to preventative care. Researching the current ratio in Bolton, compared to state and national averages, is paramount. If the ratio is unfavorable, identifying the underlying causes, such as physician shortages or limited recruitment efforts, is necessary. This information is crucial for evaluating the baseline.

Within ZIP Code 28423, the distribution of primary care practices is another crucial element. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, readily available? Assessing the geographic distribution of providers, alongside the types of services offered, paints a clearer picture of accessibility. This information contributes to the 'Asthma Score'.

The availability of specialized asthma care is a significant component. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to specialists is essential for complex cases or when asthma is poorly controlled. The proximity of specialists, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their patient load all influence the quality of care. A high concentration of specialists, coupled with reasonable wait times, would positively impact the 'Asthma Score'.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Does Burgaw and Bolton have practices offering telehealth consultations for asthma management? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and education. The adoption rate of telemedicine, including the types of platforms used and patient satisfaction with these services, is a key factor in the 'Asthma Score' calculation.

Mental health integration is increasingly recognized as crucial in asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety and depression are often associated with asthma, potentially exacerbating symptoms and hindering adherence to treatment plans. Assessing whether primary care practices in the area offer integrated mental health services, such as on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, is essential. This integration significantly enhances the 'Asthma Score'.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 28423 and the surrounding areas is essential. These practices serve as models for best practices and innovation. Examining their patient outcomes, patient satisfaction scores, and their adoption of technology can highlight effective strategies. Are there practices that have implemented comprehensive asthma management programs, including patient education, regular check-ups, and proactive medication management? Recognizing and celebrating these practices can inspire others to improve.

Evaluating the availability of asthma education resources is another critical aspect. Do local hospitals, clinics, and community organizations offer asthma education programs for patients and their families? These programs provide valuable information about asthma triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques. The accessibility and quality of these educational resources directly impact patient outcomes and improve the 'Asthma Score'.

The role of insurance coverage in access to care cannot be overlooked. Does the patient population in ZIP Code 28423 have adequate insurance coverage, including coverage for asthma medications and specialist visits? The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers is also critical. Limited insurance coverage or a lack of acceptance by providers can create significant barriers to care, negatively impacting the 'Asthma Score'.

The quality of the local emergency medical services (EMS) is another factor to consider. In cases of severe asthma exacerbations, timely access to emergency medical care is crucial. Assessing the response times of EMS, the availability of trained paramedics with expertise in asthma management, and the proximity to emergency rooms equipped to handle asthma emergencies are all relevant.

The overall 'Asthma Score' for ZIP Code 28423 and Bolton is a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a strong healthcare infrastructure, with readily available providers, integrated mental health services, and a commitment to patient education and telemedicine. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, increasing telemedicine adoption, and enhancing the integration of mental health services.

This assessment underscores the need for continuous monitoring and improvement in healthcare access and quality. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within ZIP Code 28423 and Bolton is essential for developing effective strategies to improve asthma management. This requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and the location of asthma education programs, consider using interactive mapping tools. These tools can help identify areas with limited access to care and highlight opportunities for improvement.

Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape of ZIP Code 28423 and Bolton? Explore the power of spatial data analysis with CartoChrome maps. Understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas for improvement. Click here to learn more and see how CartoChrome maps can help you improve asthma management in your community.