28501, Kinston, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.67 percent of the residents in 28501 has some form of health insurance. 59.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.47 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 28501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,809 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28501. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,524 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 661 health care providers accessible to residents in 28501, Kinston, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Kinston, NC (ZIP Code 28501)

Kinston, North Carolina, nestled in Lenoir County, presents a unique landscape for asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources within the context of asthma care for residents of ZIP code 28501. We will assess the "Asthma Score" based on these key factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests upon accessible primary care. In Kinston, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the Asthma Score. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, reduced wait times, and more personalized care. Conversely, a higher ratio may signal potential challenges in accessing timely medical attention, which can be detrimental to asthma management, especially during acute exacerbations. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and local healthcare providers will be essential to determine the precise ratio within the 28501 ZIP code.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community matters. Are primary care practices clustered in certain areas, potentially leaving underserved populations with limited access? Understanding the geographic distribution of practices helps assess whether all residents, regardless of their location within the ZIP code, have equitable access to care. This spatial analysis is vital for a comprehensive Asthma Score assessment.

Standout practices within Kinston will significantly influence the overall score. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to best practices in asthma management, including comprehensive patient education, proactive monitoring of asthma control, and the implementation of individualized asthma action plans. They may also actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about asthma triggers and preventative measures. Identifying these practices, and understanding their specific approaches, is key to understanding the local standard of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in the Asthma Score. The ability to access healthcare remotely offers several advantages, especially for asthma patients. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those seeking care during non-traditional hours. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine technologies, and the types of telemedicine services offered, will directly impact the Asthma Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they are intrinsically linked. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Conversely, mental health challenges can worsen asthma symptoms and adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the Kinston healthcare system is a crucial component of a comprehensive Asthma Score. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who can provide support and treatment for patients experiencing mental health challenges related to their asthma.

The integration of mental health services with asthma care is particularly important. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health providers, and there should be a collaborative approach to patient care. This collaborative approach can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life. The degree to which this integration exists in Kinston will be a factor in the Asthma Score.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, will influence the score. While PCPs are the cornerstone of asthma management, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require the expertise of specialists. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists are important factors.

The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a simple numerical ranking. It is a multifaceted assessment that considers a range of factors. It reflects the availability of PCPs, the physician-to-patient ratio, the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. It also considers the presence of specialized asthma care and the commitment of local practices to evidence-based asthma management.

The final Asthma Score will be a reflection of the strengths and weaknesses of the Kinston healthcare system. This analysis will provide a valuable tool for healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance asthma care within the community.

The assessment will also consider the availability of patient education materials, support groups, and other resources that empower patients to actively manage their asthma. These resources are essential for promoting patient self-management and improving overall asthma control.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score analysis for Kinston, NC (ZIP code 28501) will provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape and its impact on asthma management. It will highlight areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and other critical factors related to asthma care in Kinston, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a dynamic and informative way to understand the complexities of the local healthcare system.