28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.37 percent of the residents in 28456 has some form of health insurance. 47.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.46 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 28456 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 612 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28456. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 698 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 940 health care providers accessible to residents in 28456, Riegelwood, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28456 and Primary Care Availability in Riegelwood**

Analyzing healthcare access within a specific ZIP code and town necessitates a nuanced understanding of available resources, physician distribution, and the overall health landscape. This analysis will delve into the asthma care environment for residents of ZIP code 28456, encompassing the town of Riegelwood, North Carolina, focusing on primary care availability and related factors. The aim is to provide a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' assessment, considering various aspects of healthcare delivery and resource allocation.

The foundation of any asthma score analysis begins with the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Riegelwood, a relatively small community, likely faces challenges regarding PCP density. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to appointment delays, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, exacerbation of chronic conditions like asthma. Accurate data on the number of PCPs actively practicing within 28456 is paramount. This includes not just the total number of physicians but also their specialties, with a focus on those with experience in pulmonology or allergy care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is crucial. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single clinic, or are they spread across multiple practices? The geographic accessibility of these practices is another key factor. Consider the distance residents must travel to reach a PCP, especially for those with limited transportation options or mobility issues. This geographic accessibility directly impacts the ability of asthma sufferers to receive timely care.

The quality of care provided by the available PCPs is equally important. This involves assessing the implementation of evidence-based asthma management guidelines. Do the practices routinely conduct asthma action plan reviews? Do they offer patient education on proper inhaler technique and environmental control measures? The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination, allowing for better communication between PCPs, specialists, and pharmacies.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care for asthma patients, especially those who live far from medical facilities. Telemedicine can facilitate medication refills, symptom monitoring, and even remote pulmonary function testing. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in 28456 is essential for a comprehensive 'Asthma Score'.

The presence of mental health resources is another important aspect of asthma care. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, can help asthma patients manage their condition more effectively and improve their overall quality of life. Are there mental health providers within the community or nearby? Are PCPs trained to screen for mental health issues?

Identifying standout practices within 28456 is valuable. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care, such as offering specialized asthma clinics, employing certified asthma educators, or actively participating in asthma research, should be recognized. These practices can serve as models for other providers and contribute to improving the overall 'Asthma Score' for the community.

The availability of specialized asthma care is also crucial. While PCPs are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists and allergists is essential for patients with complex asthma or those who require specialized treatment. The proximity of these specialists to 28456 and the ease with which patients can access their services are important considerations.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as respiratory therapy and pharmacy services, should be evaluated. Respiratory therapists can provide valuable support to asthma patients, teaching them breathing techniques and helping them manage their symptoms. The presence of a pharmacy that stocks asthma medications and provides medication counseling is also essential.

The overall healthcare environment in Riegelwood and the surrounding area, including factors like insurance coverage rates and socioeconomic indicators, can also influence the 'Asthma Score'. High rates of uninsured residents or those with limited access to healthcare can create barriers to care and negatively impact asthma management.

The 'Asthma Score' analysis for 28456 should also consider the availability of community resources that support asthma patients. This includes asthma support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing environmental triggers, such as mold and dust mites.

Finally, the assessment should incorporate patient feedback. Gathering information from asthma patients about their experiences with the healthcare system, including their satisfaction with their providers, their ability to access care, and the quality of the care they receive, is invaluable. This patient-centered perspective is crucial for a truly comprehensive 'Asthma Score'.

In conclusion, evaluating the 'Asthma Score' for doctors in ZIP code 28456 and primary care availability in Riegelwood requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, geographic accessibility, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, standout practices, specialized asthma care, ancillary services, community resources, and patient feedback. This holistic approach provides a comprehensive picture of the asthma care environment and identifies areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Riegelwood and the surrounding area, including the location of physicians, pharmacies, and other healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.