28478, Willard, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28478, Willard, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.25 percent of the residents in 28478 has some form of health insurance. 41.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.78 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 28478 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,265 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28478. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 731 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 241 health care providers accessible to residents in 28478, Willard, North Carolina.

The analysis below focuses on the availability of primary care physicians and resources for asthma management within ZIP code 28478, encompassing the town of Willard, North Carolina. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors influencing the overall "Asthma Score" for residents. This score, while not a formal metric, represents a qualitative evaluation of the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing asthma in this specific geographic area.

Willard, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to a lower density of physicians compared to more urban centers. This lower density directly impacts the physician-to-patient ratio. Accurately determining this ratio requires precise data on both the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and the total population. Publicly available data sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board, can provide population figures and physician licensing information. However, physician counts may not reflect actual practice locations or the number of patients they serve within the specified ZIP code. Furthermore, specialists, while important for complex asthma cases, are often located outside of the immediate area, creating a need for travel for advanced care.

The "Asthma Score" is significantly impacted by the types of practices available. Ideally, a high score would indicate a concentration of practices offering comprehensive asthma management. This includes access to board-certified pulmonologists or allergists, respiratory therapists, and asthma educators. These healthcare professionals can provide specialized care, including accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and patient education on asthma triggers and management techniques. The presence of these resources directly correlates with better asthma control and a reduced risk of exacerbations. The score would also be positively influenced by practices that are open to same-day appointments for acute asthma episodes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, offers significant advantages for patients in rural areas. It can improve access to specialists, facilitate medication management, and provide virtual consultations for routine check-ups. Practices embracing telemedicine technologies, such as video conferencing and remote monitoring devices, contribute to a higher score. The ability to connect with a healthcare provider from home, especially during times of increased asthma symptoms, can significantly improve patient outcomes. However, the availability of reliable internet connectivity in the Willard area is a critical prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources play a vital role in asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a person's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care setting or through referral networks, contributes to a higher "Asthma Score." Integrated care models, where mental health services are seamlessly integrated into primary care, are particularly beneficial. This integration allows for a more holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of asthma. Support groups and educational programs focused on managing stress and anxiety are also valuable resources.

The "Asthma Score" is also influenced by the availability of patient education materials and resources. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about asthma triggers, medication usage, and self-management techniques contribute to a higher score. This includes access to written materials, online resources, and educational programs. Asthma action plans, personalized plans developed by healthcare providers and patients, are essential for effective asthma management. Practices that routinely provide and update these plans contribute to a higher score.

The overall quality of care also depends on the practice's willingness to collaborate with other healthcare providers. Effective communication and coordination between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals are crucial for optimal asthma management. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing can improve care coordination. Practices that actively participate in referral networks and collaborate with other providers contribute to a higher "Asthma Score."

In assessing the "Asthma Score" for Willard, it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the local practices. Are there any standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care? Do any practices have a high adoption rate of telemedicine? Are there any practices that have a focus on mental health resources? Answering these questions will provide a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and allow for a more accurate assessment of the "Asthma Score."

Finally, the "Asthma Score" should also consider the availability of emergency services. Rapid access to emergency care is essential for managing severe asthma exacerbations. The proximity of emergency rooms and urgent care facilities plays a critical role in patient safety. The presence of well-trained emergency medical services (EMS) personnel who are equipped to handle asthma emergencies is also important. The overall score would be negatively impacted by a lack of access to these resources.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" is a dynamic measure that can change over time. The availability of healthcare resources, the adoption of new technologies, and the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers all contribute to the overall score. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that residents of Willard have access to the best possible asthma care.

CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Willard, North Carolina. Using their interactive mapping tools, you can explore the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare resources. This visualization can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare services and identify potential areas of need.