28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.16 percent of the residents in 28428 has some form of health insurance. 30.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.05 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 28428 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 968 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 14 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28428. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,411 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,460 health care providers accessible to residents in 28428, Carolina Beach, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Carolina Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28428)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Carolina Beach, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28428) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis examines physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to an "Asthma Score" reflecting the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, identifying strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of asthma care hinges on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Carolina Beach, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the area's relatively small population and proximity to Wilmington, NC, suggest a potentially variable PCP density. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent per patient during consultations. Conversely, a lower ratio generally facilitates better access to care. The analysis would need to consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 28428 ZIP code, alongside the estimated patient population, to calculate this crucial ratio. This metric directly impacts the "Asthma Score," with a more favorable ratio contributing positively.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices significantly influence asthma care quality. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate patients' needs? Do they have dedicated asthma educators or nurses? Practices with specialized staff and patient-centric scheduling demonstrate a greater commitment to asthma management. The presence of on-site spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for asthma, also contributes positively to the "Asthma Score." Practices equipped with this technology can provide more efficient and comprehensive care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within Carolina Beach's primary care practices is a key consideration. Practices offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and asthma education can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing further from the practice. The "Asthma Score" benefits from increased telemedicine adoption, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to patient care. Practices that utilize remote monitoring tools, such as peak flow meters with digital data transmission, also earn higher marks.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, potentially exacerbating symptoms and impacting overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within or in close proximity to primary care practices is a critical component of the "Asthma Score." Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or established referral networks, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The presence of mental health professionals trained in managing anxiety and depression related to chronic respiratory conditions further enhances the score.

Identifying standout practices is essential for a comprehensive analysis. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing practice accreditations, and evaluating the availability of specialized asthma management programs. Practices consistently receiving positive patient feedback, particularly regarding communication, empathy, and effective asthma control, deserve recognition. Practices that have earned accreditations from reputable organizations, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), also demonstrate a commitment to quality and patient safety. Practices offering structured asthma education programs, including personalized action plans and regular follow-up appointments, contribute significantly to the "Asthma Score."

The analysis must consider the specific needs of the Carolina Beach population. The area's coastal location may present unique challenges, such as increased exposure to allergens like pollen and mold. Practices that are aware of these environmental factors and tailor their asthma management strategies accordingly will receive a higher "Asthma Score." This includes educating patients about local allergen triggers and providing guidance on environmental control measures.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of specialist care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, in the broader Wilmington area. While these specialists may not be located directly within the 28428 ZIP code, their accessibility and referral pathways from primary care practices are critical for managing complex asthma cases. The ease of access to specialist consultations and diagnostic testing directly impacts the overall quality of care and contributes to the "Asthma Score."

The "Asthma Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to capture changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A comprehensive analysis should also consider the cost of care, including insurance acceptance and the availability of financial assistance programs. This ensures that the "Asthma Score" accurately reflects the accessibility and affordability of asthma care in Carolina Beach.

The "Asthma Score" is a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It provides a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and can be used to identify areas for improvement. By focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, the "Asthma Score" offers a comprehensive assessment of asthma care quality.

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