28560, New Bern, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28560, New Bern, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.03 percent of the residents in 28560 has some form of health insurance. 42.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.22 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 28560 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,965 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28560. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,031 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,163 health care providers accessible to residents in 28560, New Bern, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: New Bern, NC (ZIP Code 28560)

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within New Bern, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28560), focusing on the availability of primary care physicians, the resources dedicated to asthma management, and the overall accessibility of care. We aim to provide an “Asthma Score” assessment, considering various factors that impact patient outcomes and the quality of life for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests heavily on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In New Bern, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the average number of patients per PCP provides a crucial benchmark. A higher ratio can potentially strain resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized attention for asthma patients. The local health department and hospital systems often provide data on these ratios, allowing for a more precise evaluation of accessibility.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is equally important. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving certain neighborhoods underserved? This geographic analysis impacts access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those reliant on public transportation. Examining the availability of evening and weekend appointments further enhances the assessment, as asthma symptoms can arise unpredictably.

Standout practices in New Bern, in terms of asthma care, likely demonstrate a proactive approach to patient management. This includes implementing comprehensive asthma action plans, providing patient education on triggers and medication adherence, and regularly monitoring lung function. Practices employing certified asthma educators are a significant advantage, as these professionals offer specialized expertise in asthma management and patient empowerment. Furthermore, practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) effectively streamline care, enabling better communication between physicians, specialists, and patients.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing the healthcare landscape, and its impact on asthma care is significant. In New Bern, the degree to which practices embrace telemedicine is a key factor in the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine offers several benefits, including remote monitoring of lung function, virtual consultations for medication adjustments, and convenient follow-up appointments. For asthma patients, telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or living in geographically remote areas. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma management protocols deserve recognition.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and vice versa. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma care model. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and connect patients with appropriate support services contribute significantly to a higher "Asthma Score." This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups.

Specialist referrals are another crucial consideration. While PCPs are the cornerstone of asthma care, access to pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) is essential for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The ease of referral, the wait times for specialist appointments, and the availability of specialized asthma clinics all contribute to the overall quality of care. Practices that have established strong referral networks with pulmonologists demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive asthma management.

The "Asthma Score" for New Bern, NC (28560) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve asthma care. The score can be improved through investments in primary care, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services. Public health initiatives promoting asthma awareness and education also play a crucial role.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" is a reflection of the community's commitment to the well-being of its residents with asthma.

To further explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and the accessibility of pharmacies within New Bern (ZIP Code 28560), we encourage you to utilize the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.