28520, Cedar Island, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28520, Cedar Island, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.73 percent of the residents in 28520 has some form of health insurance. 49.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.74 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 28520 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28520. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 88 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 43 health care providers accessible to residents in 28520, Cedar Island, North Carolina.

The analysis of asthma care within ZIP code 28520, encompassing the Cedar Island community, requires a multifaceted approach, evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. Assessing an “Asthma Score” necessitates considering factors beyond simple physician counts, incorporating elements that directly impact patient outcomes and the quality of life for those managing this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis delves into the specifics of primary care availability in Cedar Island, offering a nuanced perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any asthma care assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Cedar Island, being a relatively small and geographically isolated community, likely faces challenges in this area. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment adjustments for asthma patients. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, facilitating more frequent check-ups and proactive management of the condition. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Cedar Island requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. The analysis should also consider the distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code, ensuring accessibility for all residents, including those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves play a significant role. Standout practices demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through several key indicators. These include the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for asthma care, such as those established by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Practices actively utilizing these guidelines are more likely to provide patients with comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment plans, and regular monitoring of asthma control. The presence of certified asthma educators (CAEs) within a practice is another positive indicator. CAEs are specially trained healthcare professionals who can provide patients with education on asthma triggers, medication use, inhaler techniques, and self-management strategies. This education empowers patients to take an active role in their care, leading to improved outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas like Cedar Island. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, or online educational resources are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible asthma care. The quality of the telemedicine platform, including its ease of use, security features, and integration with electronic health records (EHRs), is also critical. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma care programs are likely to achieve better patient adherence to treatment plans and improved asthma control.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable, and this holds true for asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is crucial. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns, offer on-site counseling services, or have established relationships with mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care. The integration of mental health services into asthma care can improve patient outcomes by addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of the condition.

Specific practices within ZIP code 28520 should be individually assessed. This would involve researching the practice's website, reviewing online patient testimonials (while acknowledging the limitations of this data), and, if possible, speaking with patients or healthcare professionals familiar with the practice. Key questions to consider include: Does the practice have a dedicated asthma management program? Does it offer same-day or next-day appointments for acute asthma exacerbations? Does it utilize EHRs to track patient outcomes and medication adherence? Does it provide educational materials and support for patients and their families? The answers to these questions will help determine the practice's overall commitment to asthma care.

The analysis should also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem in Cedar Island. This includes the availability of urgent care facilities, emergency rooms, and specialty care providers, such as pulmonologists and allergists. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to these other healthcare resources is essential for managing acute exacerbations and providing specialized care when needed. The proximity of these facilities to Cedar Island and their ability to provide timely and appropriate care are critical factors in the overall asthma score.

Finally, the analysis should consider the community's social determinants of health. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, housing conditions, and access to healthy food, can significantly impact asthma outcomes. Communities with high rates of poverty, substandard housing, or environmental hazards are more likely to experience higher rates of asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations. Addressing these social determinants of health requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP code 28520 and primary care availability in Cedar Island is a complex undertaking. It requires a detailed evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. A comprehensive assessment will identify areas of strength and weakness, informing strategies to improve asthma care and outcomes for the residents of Cedar Island.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of resources, access to care, and potential disparities in asthma care, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the availability of primary care physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the distribution of social determinants of health within the community.