28528, Gloucester, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.32 percent of the residents in 28528 has some form of health insurance. 28.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.96 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 28528 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 127 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28528. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,144 health care providers accessible to residents in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28528 and Primary Care Availability in Gloucester

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care services, specifically focusing on asthma management, within ZIP code 28528 (likely encompassing Gloucester, NC, and surrounding areas). The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors beyond simple physician counts, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive asthma care.

The foundation of a good asthma score begins with access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In assessing the situation within 28528, we must consider the overall population size of Gloucester and the surrounding areas. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where there are fewer doctors per capita, can create significant barriers to timely appointments, preventative care, and effective asthma management. This scarcity forces individuals to delay treatment or seek care in emergency settings, exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing healthcare costs. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating greater physician availability, is a positive indicator of access and a higher asthma score. Data on the precise population and the number of actively practicing PCPs in the zip code is essential for a reliable assessment.

Beyond simple numbers, the type of primary care practices available significantly impacts the asthma score. Practices that are integrated, offering a range of services under one roof, often provide better continuity of care. This is particularly important for asthma patients, who benefit from consistent monitoring and management plans. These integrated practices might include on-site pharmacies, laboratory services, and respiratory therapists. Practices that are part of larger healthcare networks also often have access to more resources, including specialists and advanced diagnostic tools, which can improve asthma care.

The presence of board-certified pulmonologists or allergists within a reasonable distance of 28528 is another critical factor. While PCPs are the first line of defense, asthma often requires specialized care. Easy access to specialists for diagnosis, treatment adjustments, and severe asthma management significantly improves patient outcomes and contributes to a higher asthma score. The availability of these specialists would be a positive indicator for a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial aspect of modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person appointments can be challenging. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and asthma education, can significantly improve access to care for asthma patients in 28528. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation limitations, or those living in remote areas. A practice that embraces telemedicine would significantly boost the asthma score.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities, and uncontrolled asthma can exacerbate these conditions. The availability of mental health resources, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is therefore crucial for comprehensive asthma care. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer counseling services, or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals contribute to a higher asthma score.

Specific practices within 28528 should be evaluated based on their adherence to best practices in asthma management. This includes the implementation of asthma action plans, regular pulmonary function testing, and patient education programs. Practices that proactively educate patients about triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment and improved outcomes. These practices would receive a higher asthma score.

Furthermore, a practice's responsiveness to patient needs, including appointment availability, wait times, and communication methods, significantly impacts patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer flexible appointment scheduling, and provide clear and concise information about asthma management contribute to a higher asthma score.

The analysis should also consider any community-based asthma programs or initiatives in 28528. These programs might include asthma education workshops, support groups, or collaborations with local schools and community organizations. The presence of such programs indicates a commitment to community health and can significantly improve asthma outcomes. These programs would increase the overall asthma score.

The assessment of ‘primary care availability in Gloucester’ requires data from multiple sources. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), the US Census Bureau, and professional medical directories can provide essential information about physician counts, practice locations, and specializations. Patient reviews and online ratings can provide insights into patient satisfaction and practice quality.

The "Asthma Score" for 28528 will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. A higher score indicates better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater likelihood of positive asthma outcomes. This score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare resources evolve.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of asthma care in 28528, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions about asthma care and to advocate for improved access to quality services.

For a visual representation of this data, including the geographic distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to specialists, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can offer a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape in 28528, making it easier to understand the complex factors that impact asthma care.