28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.33 percent of the residents in 28442 has some form of health insurance. 49.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.85 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 28442 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 223 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28442. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 372 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,249 health care providers accessible to residents in 28442, Hallsboro, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28442 and Hallsboro Primary Care

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within ZIP Code 28442 and its connection to primary care availability in Hallsboro necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as an “Asthma Score,” considers several critical factors impacting patient outcomes, moving beyond simple metrics to assess the overall quality and accessibility of care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the current state and identify areas for improvement.

The first element of the Asthma Score concerns the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric, while seemingly straightforward, can be misleading without context. A high ratio of patients per physician might suggest limited access, but it’s crucial to consider the specialization of those physicians. Are there board-certified allergists or pulmonologists within the ZIP code or readily accessible in nearby areas? Furthermore, the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants (PAs) can significantly augment access, particularly in rural settings like Hallsboro. Their ability to manage chronic conditions, including asthma, is a critical component of the care ecosystem. Data on the number of physicians, their specializations, and the patient population within 28442 and the surrounding areas, including Hallsboro, is essential for a meaningful assessment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the Asthma Score evaluates the quality of care delivery. This includes assessing the adherence to established asthma guidelines, such as those published by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Practices demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based medicine, including regular asthma action plan development, spirometry testing, and patient education, will score higher. The availability of on-site or readily accessible respiratory therapists also contributes positively to the score. Practices that actively monitor patient outcomes, track exacerbations, and implement strategies for asthma control are demonstrating a proactive approach to patient well-being.

A critical component of the Asthma Score is the integration of telemedicine. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, providing secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring capabilities, will receive a higher score. The efficiency of these platforms, including the ease of scheduling appointments and the integration of patient data, is also a factor. Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services that are covered by insurance is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of asthma care, yet they are critically important. Asthma can significantly impact a patient’s mental and emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The Asthma Score therefore considers the availability of mental health support within the primary care setting and the wider community. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, provide referrals to mental health professionals, and offer resources for managing stress and anxiety will receive a higher score. Collaboration between primary care physicians, mental health specialists, and asthma educators is essential for providing comprehensive patient care.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 28442 is a key objective. This requires a deeper dive into individual practice characteristics. Factors to consider include the practice’s patient satisfaction scores, its commitment to continuous quality improvement, and its adoption of innovative approaches to asthma management. Practices that actively engage with their patients, providing personalized care plans and ongoing support, will be recognized. Furthermore, practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education efforts, such as asthma awareness campaigns and support groups, will receive a higher score.

Primary care availability in Hallsboro directly impacts the Asthma Score for 28442 residents. The proximity and accessibility of primary care providers are crucial for managing asthma effectively. The Asthma Score assesses the number of primary care physicians in Hallsboro, their patient load, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. The availability of after-hours care and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless information sharing between primary care physicians and specialists are also important considerations. The presence of a well-functioning referral network between primary care providers and specialists in the surrounding areas is also a key indicator of a strong care system.

The overall Asthma Score is not simply a numerical ranking. It is a holistic assessment that considers the interplay of various factors, including physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and primary care access. The score is intended to be a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve asthma management and patient outcomes. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to track progress and identify areas where further improvements are needed.

The final component of the Asthma Score is the assessment of patient education and self-management support. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive education about asthma triggers, medications, and self-management techniques will receive a higher score. The availability of asthma educators, educational materials, and support groups is also crucial. Empowering patients to take an active role in their care is essential for achieving optimal asthma control.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score is a tool for understanding the complex landscape of asthma care within ZIP Code 28442 and the surrounding areas, including Hallsboro. It is a framework for identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. By considering all these factors, a more complete picture of the care landscape emerges.

Are you interested in visualizing this data geographically? Explore the power of spatial analysis to gain deeper insights into healthcare access and asthma care quality. Visit CartoChrome maps to see how you can map and analyze healthcare data for a more comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape in your area.