28516, Beaufort, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.61 percent of the residents in 28516 has some form of health insurance. 48.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.44 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 28516 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,768 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28516. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,476 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,375 health care providers accessible to residents in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Beaufort, NC (ZIP Code 28516) & Primary Care Landscape

Beaufort, North Carolina, nestled along the Crystal Coast, presents a unique healthcare landscape, particularly concerning asthma management and primary care accessibility. This analysis delves into the available resources within ZIP Code 28516, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support – all critical components in formulating an "Asthma Score" that reflects the quality and accessibility of care for asthma sufferers in this coastal community.

The foundation of any robust asthma management strategy rests on readily available primary care. In Beaufort, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of accessibility. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, a general understanding of the ratio is vital. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent per patient, and a less personalized approach to care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more comprehensive asthma management. Researching the specific ratio within 28516 is paramount, ideally utilizing data from the North Carolina Medical Board or similar sources, to accurately assess the pressure on existing primary care providers.

Beyond simple numbers, the geographical distribution of primary care practices within Beaufort is also a key factor. Are practices clustered in specific areas, potentially creating access disparities for residents in more remote locations? The proximity of primary care to residential areas, schools, and workplaces significantly impacts the ease with which patients can access routine check-ups, urgent care for asthma exacerbations, and specialist referrals. Analyzing the location of these practices, in relation to population density and transportation options, provides valuable insight into the overall accessibility of care.

Identifying standout practices within Beaufort is crucial for asthma sufferers seeking quality care. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based asthma management guidelines, including comprehensive asthma action plans, regular spirometry testing to assess lung function, and patient education on triggers and medication adherence. These practices may also actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and maintain a strong patient satisfaction record. Researching online reviews, seeking recommendations from local pharmacies, and consulting with community health organizations can help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in the asthma score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for routine follow-ups and medication adjustments, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine often utilize secure video conferencing platforms to provide remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, offer educational resources, and facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in 28516 is essential.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health concerns. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to psychological distress. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical component of a comprehensive asthma score. Does the primary care practice offer on-site mental health services, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals in the community? Access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in managing chronic illnesses is vital for supporting the overall well-being of asthma patients. Investigating the availability and accessibility of these resources in Beaufort is a priority.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is a significant factor. While primary care physicians can provide initial asthma management, access to specialists is often necessary for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. Assessing the proximity and availability of these specialists within or near 28516 is important. If specialists are limited, the asthma score may need adjustment to reflect the potential challenges in accessing specialized care.

Another important aspect of the asthma score relates to community resources. Are there local asthma support groups or educational programs available? These resources can provide valuable peer support, education on asthma management techniques, and information on community-based programs that can help patients manage their condition. Investigating the availability and accessibility of these community resources is crucial for the overall assessment.

The overall asthma score for Beaufort, NC (28516) will be a composite of all these factors. The score would be higher for a community with low physician-to-patient ratios, readily available primary care, standout practices that prioritize asthma management, widespread telemedicine adoption, accessible mental health resources, and access to specialized asthma care. Conversely, the score would be lower for a community facing challenges in any of these areas.

Finally, data visualization tools can be invaluable in understanding the healthcare landscape of Beaufort. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, patient demographics, and the distribution of healthcare resources. These maps can highlight areas with limited access to care, identify potential disparities, and inform strategies for improving asthma management and overall healthcare accessibility.

Consider exploring the healthcare landscape of Beaufort, NC (28516) with the power of CartoChrome maps. They offer a dynamic and insightful way to visualize the factors discussed in this analysis, aiding in a more informed understanding of asthma care accessibility and the overall health of the community.