28582, Stella, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28582, Stella, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.51 percent of the residents in 28582 has some form of health insurance. 29.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.49 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 28582 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 281 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28582. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 423 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,877 health care providers accessible to residents in 28582, Stella, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Stella, NC (ZIP Code 28582)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare for asthma sufferers in Stella, North Carolina, and the surrounding ZIP code 28582 requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to an "Asthma Score" reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of care. Stella, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma.

The cornerstone of asthma care is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP code 28582 is a crucial indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face lower ratios compared to urban centers. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a potentially dispersed population. The "Asthma Score" will be negatively impacted if the PCP-to-patient ratio is significantly higher than the national average. Further research would be required to determine the exact ratio, but this is a critical starting point.

Beyond simple numbers, the types of practices available matter. Are there any dedicated asthma specialists or pulmonologists within a reasonable driving distance? The presence of these specialists significantly elevates the "Asthma Score." Their expertise in asthma management, including advanced diagnostics and treatment options, is invaluable. Conversely, the absence of such specialists necessitates reliance on PCPs for primary asthma care, which, while adequate for some, may limit access to specialized interventions.

The size and structure of primary care practices also influence the "Asthma Score." Larger practices with multiple physicians often offer greater appointment availability and potentially more comprehensive services. Smaller, solo practices may provide more personalized care, but their capacity to handle a large patient load might be limited. The presence of ancillary services within a practice, such as on-site pharmacies or respiratory therapists, also positively impacts the score, streamlining the patient experience and improving adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption is a game-changer, especially in rural areas. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, significantly improve the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine reduces the need for travel, a major barrier for patients in Stella, and allows for more frequent monitoring of asthma symptoms. The ease of access and the potential for early intervention are crucial benefits. Practices that actively promote and utilize telemedicine will receive a higher score.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can trigger anxiety and depression, and these conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. The "Asthma Score" must consider the availability of mental health resources. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists, integrated into the primary care practices or readily accessible within the community? The presence of these resources, and the degree to which they collaborate with primary care physicians, significantly boosts the score. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate services are highly valued.

Identifying "standout practices" is essential. These are practices that excel in specific areas, such as patient education, asthma action plan development, and patient communication. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their asthma effectively, will receive a higher score. This includes providing educational materials, offering support groups, and utilizing patient portals for communication and medication refills.

The "Asthma Score" would also consider the availability of after-hours care. Asthma attacks can occur at any time, and access to urgent care or on-call physicians is critical. Practices that offer extended hours or have arrangements for after-hours care will receive a higher score. This ensures that patients have access to medical attention when they need it most.

Assessing the quality of care provided requires examining patient outcomes. While specific data on asthma control rates and hospital readmission rates may be difficult to obtain, practices that demonstrate a commitment to improving patient outcomes will be recognized. This includes practices that regularly monitor patient symptoms, adjust treatment plans as needed, and track patient progress.

The overall "Asthma Score" is a composite measure, taking into account all these factors. A higher score indicates better access to quality asthma care, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Stella, NC, and identifies areas where resources and services can be enhanced to better serve asthma sufferers.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare resources available in Stella, NC, and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a detailed spatial representation of healthcare access, allowing you to visualize the information discussed in this analysis and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.