28461, Southport, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28461, Southport, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.85 percent of the residents in 28461 has some form of health insurance. 49.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.61 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 28461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,740 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28461. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,731 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,725 health care providers accessible to residents in 28461, Southport, North Carolina.

The quaint coastal town of Southport, North Carolina, nestled within the 28461 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery. Analyzing the “Asthma Score” for doctors in this area, specifically focusing on primary care availability and related resources, reveals a complex picture. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in managing a chronic condition like asthma.

The initial assessment of asthma care begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Southport, and the surrounding Brunswick County, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of asthma management. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates greater access to care, enabling more frequent check-ups, proactive management, and timely interventions. The current ratio in this area, when compared to national averages, may present challenges. Residents might face longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited access to specialists, impacting the ability to effectively control asthma symptoms and prevent exacerbations.

Standout practices within the 28461 ZIP code play a significant role in mitigating these challenges. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. They might employ certified asthma educators, offer specialized testing like spirometry, and actively participate in patient education programs. These practices prioritize patient empowerment, equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage their condition effectively. The presence of such dedicated practices is vital, especially given the potential limitations in overall physician availability.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of asthma care in Southport. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication refills electronically can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those living in more remote areas or facing mobility limitations. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and reduce the burden of travel, enabling patients to receive timely interventions and avoid unnecessary emergency room visits. The extent to which practices in the 28461 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine technology will directly influence the overall “Asthma Score” and the accessibility of care.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health resources is essential for holistic asthma management. Asthma is not just a physical condition; it can also significantly impact mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. Practices that offer or connect patients with mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This integration is particularly important in a community like Southport, where the potential for social isolation and other stressors may be present.

Evaluating the specific “Asthma Score” for doctors in the 28461 ZIP code requires a nuanced approach. It’s not simply a matter of counting physicians; it’s about assessing the quality and accessibility of care. The score should consider factors such as the availability of PCPs, the presence of specialized asthma care providers, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Data on patient outcomes, such as the frequency of asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits, would also be valuable in determining the overall effectiveness of asthma management in the area.

The presence of dedicated asthma educators is a significant positive indicator. These professionals play a crucial role in patient education, empowering individuals to understand their condition, manage their triggers, and adhere to their treatment plans. Their expertise can significantly improve asthma control and reduce the risk of exacerbations. The practices that employ these educators are likely to have a higher “Asthma Score” due to their commitment to patient-centered care.

Another factor to consider is the availability of after-hours care. Asthma symptoms can arise at any time, and access to timely medical attention is critical. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or on-call services demonstrate a commitment to patient accessibility and improve the overall “Asthma Score.” This is particularly important in a community like Southport, where residents may have limited access to transportation or face other challenges in accessing care during regular business hours.

The utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a significant factor. EHRs enable physicians to track patient data, monitor treatment effectiveness, and communicate more effectively with other healthcare providers. This can lead to improved care coordination and better asthma management. Practices that have fully integrated EHRs are likely to have a higher “Asthma Score” due to their ability to provide more efficient and coordinated care.

The overall “Asthma Score” for doctors in the 28461 ZIP code is likely to be influenced by the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for most asthma patients, access to specialists is essential for complex cases or when asthma is not well-controlled. The proximity of specialists and the ease of referral processes are important factors to consider when assessing the quality of asthma care in the area.

In conclusion, the “Asthma Score” for doctors in the 28461 ZIP code reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the physician-to-patient ratio may present challenges, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources can significantly improve the quality and accessibility of asthma care. A comprehensive analysis should consider all these factors to provide a complete picture of the healthcare landscape in Southport.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources available in the 28461 ZIP code and beyond, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides detailed spatial data, allowing you to analyze physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant information.