28547, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28547, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 25.37 percent of the residents in 28547 has some form of health insurance. 0.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 25.23 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 28547 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,141 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28547. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 12 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,052 health care providers accessible to residents in 28547, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

The analysis below provides an assessment of asthma care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 28547, encompassing Camp Lejeune and surrounding areas. This assessment considers factors impacting patient care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing asthma within this specific geographical region.

Assessing the overall quality of asthma care begins with understanding the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Camp Lejeune, being a military base, presents a unique healthcare ecosystem. The primary care physicians within the base's medical facilities are the initial point of contact for most patients. However, the availability of appointments, the physician-to-patient ratio, and the efficiency of the referral process to specialists, such as pulmonologists, are crucial determinants of care quality. A high physician-to-patient ratio, especially for primary care, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized attention. This can be a significant challenge for asthma patients who require regular check-ups and prompt intervention during exacerbations.

Outside the base, the surrounding communities within ZIP code 28547 offer additional primary care options. The availability of these providers, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their familiarity with asthma management protocols are all critical. The presence of practices specializing in respiratory care, or those with a demonstrated focus on chronic disease management, would be highly beneficial. Practices that integrate asthma education programs, including self-management techniques and environmental control strategies, would be considered to have a higher quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within the primary care practices and specialist clinics in the area is a significant factor. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, potentially reducing the burden on patients and improving access to care, especially for those living in more remote areas or with mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth services, including the ability to monitor patients' symptoms remotely and provide timely interventions, can significantly improve asthma control and reduce hospitalizations. The integration of telehealth platforms with electronic health records (EHRs) further enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of care.

Mental health resources are also a critical component of asthma management. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care practices or through referral networks, is a crucial element of comprehensive care. Practices that screen for mental health conditions and provide integrated mental health services are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The presence of support groups and educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of asthma is also a positive indicator.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key indicators. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, including providing written asthma action plans and teaching proper inhaler techniques, are considered to be high-quality providers. Those that proactively monitor patients' asthma control, using objective measures like peak flow meters and symptom questionnaires, are also highly regarded. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as tracking asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations, demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and patient safety.

The healthcare landscape in ZIP code 28547, particularly in the context of Camp Lejeune, is dynamic. The military healthcare system, with its unique structure and resources, often differs from the civilian sector. Therefore, understanding the interplay between military and civilian healthcare providers is essential. The coordination of care between primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals is a critical factor in ensuring seamless and effective asthma management. The ability of patients to access the right level of care at the right time, regardless of their insurance or military affiliation, is a key indicator of overall healthcare quality.

The assessment of primary care availability also considers the challenges faced by military families. Frequent moves, deployment cycles, and the demands of military life can create significant stressors that impact health outcomes. The availability of healthcare providers who understand and address these unique challenges is essential. Practices that are sensitive to the needs of military families, including offering flexible appointment times, providing support for caregivers, and facilitating communication between healthcare providers and family members, are considered to be more patient-centered.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care and primary care accessibility in ZIP code 28547 requires a multi-faceted approach. It demands a thorough understanding of the physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The ability of patients to access timely, coordinated, and comprehensive care is paramount. The integration of these elements is essential for improving asthma control, enhancing quality of life, and promoting overall well-being.

For a more granular and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Camp Lejeune and the surrounding areas, including the locations of practices, the availability of specific services, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.