28523, Cove City, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28523, Cove City, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.13 percent of the residents in 28523 has some form of health insurance. 45.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.56 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 28523 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 603 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28523. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 593 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,051 health care providers accessible to residents in 28523, Cove City, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Cove City, NC (ZIP Code 28523)

Analyzing asthma care within Cove City, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 28523, requires a multifaceted approach. We must evaluate the accessibility and quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, the integration of telemedicine, and the support offered for the often-overlooked mental health aspects of managing asthma. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, though a precise numerical score is beyond the scope of this text. Instead, we will outline key factors and highlight areas of strength and weakness within the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of asthma management lies within primary care. Cove City's primary care availability is a crucial determinant of its asthma score. Physician-to-patient ratios are a primary indicator. A high ratio, meaning a smaller number of doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient visit, and potentially, less comprehensive care. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 28523 is essential. Publicly available resources, such as data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or the US Census Bureau, can help determine this ratio. A low ratio, indicating adequate or even surplus primary care physicians, would significantly boost the asthma score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are primary care physicians well-versed in asthma management guidelines, including the latest recommendations from organizations like the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Do they have readily available resources for asthma education, such as patient handouts, inhaler technique demonstrations, and referrals to respiratory therapists? Practices that actively engage in asthma education and management protocols would receive higher marks.

Identifying "standout practices" within Cove City is key. These practices might excel in several areas. Perhaps one practice consistently monitors patients' asthma control using standardized questionnaires, such as the Asthma Control Test (ACT). Another might offer extended hours or weekend appointments, improving access for patients who work or have other commitments. A practice integrating a strong patient portal, allowing for easy communication with providers and access to medical records, would also be highly regarded. These practices, if identified, would significantly elevate the overall asthma score for the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and online educational resources, can significantly improve asthma management, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher score. The ability to receive timely advice and follow-up care through telehealth can prevent exacerbations and reduce the need for emergency room visits.

The mental health aspect of asthma care is often overlooked, yet it is crucial. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and offer mental health resources, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, would be highly valued. This could include screening for mental health conditions, providing educational materials about stress management, and offering support groups for asthma patients. The integration of mental health services into asthma care is a significant factor in a comprehensive asthma score.

Specialist availability is another critical factor. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is essential for patients with more severe or complex cases. The proximity of these specialists to Cove City and the ease of referral processes are important considerations. A lack of specialist availability would negatively impact the asthma score, while readily accessible specialists would significantly improve it.

Assessing the availability of asthma education programs is also important. These programs, often run by hospitals or community organizations, provide patients with valuable information about asthma triggers, medications, and self-management techniques. Practices that actively refer patients to these programs or offer their own educational sessions would be highly regarded.

Furthermore, the availability of pharmacies within the community is important. The ease of access to medications and the ability to fill prescriptions promptly are crucial for asthma management. The number of pharmacies in the area, their operating hours, and their willingness to offer medication counseling would all be factors in the asthma score.

Finally, community-level factors play a role. The presence of environmental hazards, such as air pollution, mold, or allergens, can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The local government's efforts to address these environmental issues, such as air quality monitoring and public health initiatives, can indirectly impact the asthma score.

In summary, the asthma score for Cove City (28523) is determined by a complex interplay of factors. High physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of specialists, and community-level factors all contribute to the overall assessment. Practices that prioritize comprehensive asthma management, including education, patient support, and access to necessary resources, will receive higher marks. This analysis is a starting point. Further research and data collection are needed to develop a more precise and nuanced assessment.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Cove City and surrounding areas, including the location of practices, pharmacies, and specialists, consider using the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform can help you explore these factors in greater detail and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the asthma care environment.