28438, Evergreen, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28438, Evergreen, North Carolina is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.27 percent of the residents in 28438 has some form of health insurance. 66.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.00 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 28438 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 174 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28438. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 474 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,280 health care providers accessible to residents in 28438, Evergreen, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28438 and Primary Care in Evergreen

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28438, encompassing Evergreen, requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when focusing on asthma care and primary care availability. This analysis aims to provide an “Asthma Score” ranking, considering various factors impacting patient access and quality of care. This score, while not a definitive number, represents a qualitative assessment based on available data and insights. The primary care infrastructure in Evergreen, and its ability to support asthma patients, will be a key component.

The foundation of a strong asthma care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment adjustments for asthma sufferers. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access. However, simply counting doctors is insufficient. The distribution of these physicians across Evergreen is also crucial. Are they clustered in one area, creating access challenges for those in more remote locations? The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can provide primary care services, also influences the overall score. Their inclusion expands access, particularly in areas with PCP shortages.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Practices demonstrating a commitment to asthma management will score higher. This includes those that routinely screen for asthma, provide comprehensive asthma action plans, and educate patients on proper inhaler technique and environmental control measures. Practices that proactively manage asthma, rather than reacting to crises, contribute significantly to a higher Asthma Score. Electronic health records (EHRs) play a vital role in this. Practices utilizing robust EHR systems, allowing for easy tracking of asthma symptoms, medication adherence, and exacerbations, are better equipped to provide coordinated and effective care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for routine follow-ups and medication adjustments, can significantly improve access for asthma patients, particularly those with mobility issues or living in geographically isolated areas. Practices offering telemedicine options score higher. This is especially true if they integrate telemedicine seamlessly into their existing care workflows, allowing for easy communication between patients and providers. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, including its accessibility on various devices, also plays a role.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as integral to asthma management. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and vice versa. Practices that offer or have strong referral networks for mental health services, including therapists and psychiatrists, will receive a higher score. This includes practices that screen for mental health conditions and proactively address these issues in their asthma patients. The availability of mental health support, particularly for children and adolescents with asthma, is also a key consideration.

Specific practices within ZIP code 28438 warrant individual attention. While specific practice names cannot be listed here, the analysis considers factors such as their patient reviews, accreditation status, and participation in quality improvement programs. Practices that actively seek patient feedback and use it to improve their services demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), often indicates a higher standard of care. Participation in asthma-specific quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on reducing hospitalizations and emergency room visits, is also a positive indicator.

The overall Asthma Score for ZIP code 28438 is a composite of these factors. It reflects the availability of primary care, the quality of asthma management within those practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. It is important to note that this score is dynamic and can change as practices evolve and new resources become available. The score is not intended to be a definitive ranking but rather a qualitative assessment to help patients and healthcare stakeholders understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The primary care availability in Evergreen, within the context of the broader ZIP code, influences the overall score. A strong primary care foundation, with sufficient PCPs and supporting staff, is crucial for effective asthma management. The geographical distribution of these providers also matters. Are they accessible to all residents of Evergreen, or are there disparities in access? The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers, which often serve a higher proportion of patients with chronic conditions like asthma, also impacts the score.

The integration of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also a key factor. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for asthma patients, access to specialists is often necessary for complex cases or those requiring advanced treatment. The proximity of these specialists, and the ease with which patients can be referred to them, influences the overall Asthma Score. The collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists is also crucial, ensuring seamless communication and coordinated care.

The availability of asthma education programs and support groups also contributes to a higher score. These programs empower patients to manage their condition effectively, improving their quality of life and reducing the need for emergency care. The presence of these resources, and their accessibility to all residents of Evergreen, is a positive indicator.

In conclusion, evaluating the Asthma Score for ZIP code 28438, including Evergreen, is a complex process. It requires a holistic view of the healthcare landscape, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care and patient education. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve asthma care in the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in ZIP code 28438 and Evergreen, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and other relevant facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a valuable visual representation of the healthcare landscape, helping you to identify the resources available in your area and plan your healthcare journey more effectively.