28479, Winnabow, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28479, Winnabow, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.30 percent of the residents in 28479 has some form of health insurance. 35.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.06 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 28479 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,662 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28479. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,088 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,537 health care providers accessible to residents in 28479, Winnabow, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Winnabow, NC (ZIP Code 28479)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Winnabow, North Carolina (ZIP code 28479) requires a multifaceted approach. We need to consider the number of physicians specializing in asthma and general primary care within the area, the ease of access to those physicians, the utilization of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, given the significant interplay between asthma and psychological well-being. Ultimately, our goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

Winnabow, being a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges common to such locations: a potentially limited physician pool and longer travel times for appointments. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This involves determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases, including asthma) practicing within the 28479 ZIP code or a reasonable radius. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide this information. The ideal ratio would be a high number of physicians per capita, ensuring that patients have ample choices and can secure appointments promptly. A low ratio, on the other hand, suggests potential bottlenecks in access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses, treatment, and increased asthma exacerbations.

Beyond raw numbers, we must evaluate the quality of care offered. This involves investigating the practices of individual providers and clinics. Are they accepting new patients? What are their office hours and appointment availability? Do they have experience managing asthma in both adults and children? Online reviews, though subjective, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences, highlighting factors like communication, wait times, and the overall patient-provider relationship. Furthermore, we can look at the specific services offered. Do they provide comprehensive asthma management plans, including patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and emergency protocols? Do they offer spirometry testing (a lung function test) on-site?

Identifying standout practices is vital. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care. They might have a dedicated asthma nurse or respiratory therapist on staff, offering specialized support and education. They might actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in treatment. They may also be affiliated with larger healthcare systems, providing access to a broader range of specialists and resources. For example, a practice affiliated with a major hospital system might have easier access to pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, which includes video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. It can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to attend appointments and receive follow-up care. Does the practice offer virtual appointments for medication refills, asthma education, or routine check-ups? Do they use remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters, to track a patient's lung function and proactively adjust treatment plans? The availability and utilization of telemedicine can greatly enhance the Asthma Score.

The connection between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can be a chronic and debilitating condition, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Conversely, mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and make it harder to manage the condition. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources is essential. Does the practice have a mental health professional on staff, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health services in the community? Do they screen patients for mental health issues and provide support or resources as needed? Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their asthma patients will undoubtedly receive a higher Asthma Score.

Assessing the overall "Asthma Score" for Winnabow (ZIP code 28479) requires a holistic view. We need to weigh the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care offered by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a readily accessible, high-quality system of care, with ample physician availability, patient-centered practices, the use of telemedicine to enhance access, and a strong focus on the mental well-being of patients. A low score would indicate potential challenges in accessing care, with limited physician availability, a lack of telemedicine options, and a possible deficiency in addressing the mental health needs of asthma patients.

To obtain a more detailed and visual representation of these factors, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a geographical overview of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and the availability of specialized services. They can also incorporate demographic data and other relevant information, offering a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Winnabow and surrounding areas.