28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.55 percent of the residents in 28546 has some form of health insurance. 32.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.04 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 28546 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,800 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28546. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,489 health care providers accessible to residents in 28546, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28546)

Analyzing asthma care within Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28546) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, access to resources, and innovative healthcare delivery methods. This analysis will delve into the current landscape, offering an “Asthma Score” assessment based on key factors impacting patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). Jacksonville's physician-to-patient ratio is a critical data point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate treatment plans. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to determine the current PCP-to-population ratio in the 28546 ZIP code. This ratio forms a baseline for our "Asthma Score" and influences subsequent evaluations.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Practices known for specializing in respiratory health, or those with physicians board-certified in allergy and immunology, would receive higher marks. Their expertise directly translates to better asthma management, including accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and patient education. Researching local practices, examining patient reviews, and assessing their adherence to national asthma guidelines (e.g., those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program) are crucial steps in evaluating care quality. Practices actively participating in asthma-focused research or community outreach programs should also be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or medication adjustments, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically underserved areas. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms effectively, offering remote monitoring capabilities, and providing educational resources online would score favorably. The availability of telemedicine can also reduce the burden on emergency rooms, a critical consideration in asthma management.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to asthma management. Asthma can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, which can, in turn, exacerbate asthma symptoms. Practices offering integrated mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of mental health support, including access to therapists, support groups, and educational materials, contributes significantly to the overall "Asthma Score."

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also crucial. While PCPs are the first line of defense, access to specialists for complex cases or uncontrolled asthma is essential. The proximity of specialist offices to primary care practices, the ease of referral processes, and the timeliness of specialist appointments are all factors to consider. Examining the referral networks of local practices and assessing wait times for specialist appointments are vital components of the analysis.

Emergency room utilization rates are a critical indicator of asthma management effectiveness. High rates suggest either poor asthma control, inadequate access to primary care, or a combination of both. Analyzing local ER data, specifically asthma-related visits, provides valuable insights into the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in managing asthma within the 28546 ZIP code. This data can reveal trends and identify areas for improvement.

Standout practices within Jacksonville deserve special recognition. Identifying clinics that demonstrate exceptional asthma management through patient outcomes, innovative programs, or community outreach is crucial. These practices can serve as models for others, fostering a culture of excellence in asthma care. Recognizing these standout practices can also help patients make informed choices about their healthcare providers.

The "Asthma Score" for Jacksonville, NC (28546) would be a composite score, incorporating all the factors mentioned above. It would be calculated using a weighted average, with each factor contributing to the overall score based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and quality of primary care might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific context and available data. The final score would be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a snapshot of the asthma care landscape in the area.

The analysis would also consider the socio-economic factors that influence asthma prevalence and management. Factors such as poverty rates, housing conditions, and access to transportation can significantly impact patient outcomes. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for achieving equitable asthma care. Researching local community resources, such as asthma education programs, support groups, and transportation assistance programs, is essential.

Furthermore, the analysis should be dynamic, acknowledging that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates, incorporating new data and reflecting changes in healthcare practices, are essential to maintain the relevance and accuracy of the "Asthma Score." This could involve quarterly or annual reviews, incorporating feedback from patients and healthcare providers.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma care landscape in Jacksonville, NC (28546) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, care quality, access to resources, and innovative healthcare delivery methods. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of asthma care, identifying areas for improvement, and promoting better outcomes for patients.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, access to care, and demographic information, explore CartoChrome maps. They offer a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding the complexities of asthma care in Jacksonville.