28574, Richlands, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28574, Richlands, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.55 percent of the residents in 28574 has some form of health insurance. 31.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.29 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 28574 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,993 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 13 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28574. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,609 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,367 health care providers accessible to residents in 28574, Richlands, North Carolina.

The analysis below focuses on asthma care quality within the 28574 ZIP code (Richlands, North Carolina) and the availability of primary care services, considering factors relevant to asthma management. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive view, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telehealth adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in a call to action for CartoChrome maps.

Assessing the landscape of healthcare delivery in Richlands requires a multi-faceted approach, beginning with the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric is crucial, as a higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care and potentially more individualized attention. While specific, publicly available data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 28574 ZIP code can be difficult to obtain due to data privacy regulations, available resources such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) can offer estimates or identify areas designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). If Richlands is designated as an HPSA for primary care, it suggests a shortage of physicians relative to the population's needs, potentially impacting asthma patients' access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

Beyond raw physician numbers, the quality of primary care influences asthma management significantly. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for asthma patients, responsible for initial diagnosis, medication management, and referral to specialists. The presence of standout practices within the 28574 ZIP code, or within a reasonable driving distance, is therefore critical. These practices might be identified through patient reviews, online ratings, or referrals from other healthcare providers. Factors that define a standout practice include the availability of certified asthma educators, the implementation of evidence-based asthma guidelines, and a demonstrated commitment to patient education and self-management strategies. Practices that proactively monitor asthma control, offer personalized action plans, and provide regular follow-up appointments are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in asthma management, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education. The adoption rate of telemedicine by primary care practices in Richlands is a key consideration. Practices that offer telehealth options can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate regular monitoring of asthma symptoms, allowing physicians to intervene promptly when needed. It also provides a convenient platform for patients to receive education on proper inhaler technique, environmental control measures, and asthma triggers. The availability of telehealth services can be determined through practice websites, online directories, or by contacting local practices directly.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This might include on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with local mental health providers, or readily available referral pathways. Assessing the availability of these resources is an essential component of evaluating the overall quality of asthma care in Richlands.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized asthma care providers, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within the local area or a reasonable distance is a factor. While PCPs manage the majority of asthma cases, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require the expertise of specialists. The availability of these specialists, along with the ease of referral processes, directly impacts the quality of care for these patients. The presence of a local hospital with a respiratory therapy department is also a positive indicator, offering access to emergency care and specialized treatments when needed.

Analyzing the quality of asthma care in Richlands also involves evaluating the level of patient education and self-management support provided by local practices. Asthma is a chronic condition that requires active patient involvement in managing their symptoms. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing resources such as written action plans, inhaler technique demonstrations, and information on environmental control measures, are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The availability of educational materials in multiple languages is also a consideration, particularly in areas with diverse populations.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care quality in Richlands involves a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of specialist care. The data suggests a need for ongoing improvements in access to care, mental health integration, and patient education within the 28574 ZIP code.

To gain a more detailed and geographically specific understanding of healthcare resources in Richlands, including physician locations, practice profiles, and service offerings, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent healthcare data, allowing you to identify practices, access information about their services, and understand the spatial distribution of resources within the community. Use CartoChrome maps to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.