28585, Trenton, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28585, Trenton, North Carolina is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.20 percent of the residents in 28585 has some form of health insurance. 50.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.51 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 28585 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 572 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28585. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 953 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,466 health care providers accessible to residents in 28585, Trenton, North Carolina.

The analysis below considers factors relevant to asthma care within ZIP code 28585, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care in Trenton, North Carolina. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" perspective, evaluating the environment for asthma sufferers. This isn't a formal score, but a qualitative assessment based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. Trenton, a smaller community, likely faces challenges common in rural areas. The overall physician density, including primary care physicians (PCPs), specialists, and other healthcare providers, is a crucial factor. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments for asthma patients. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) can provide some insights, but these figures often represent county-level data, obscuring the specifics of Trenton.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of asthma management. PCPs are typically the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnoses, prescribing medications, and monitoring the disease's progression. The number of PCPs actively practicing in Trenton, their acceptance of new patients, and their ability to manage asthma effectively are all vital. Information regarding the specific acceptance of new patients is often difficult to obtain without direct contact with the practices. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care or urgent care facilities in the area is crucial for managing asthma exacerbations, which can be life-threatening.

Identifying standout practices is challenging without detailed patient reviews and performance data. However, some practices may have a reputation for excellent asthma care. These practices might employ certified asthma educators, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively engage patients in their care. Researching online reviews, though subjective, can provide some clues. Look for mentions of practices that are patient-centered, responsive to patient needs, and demonstrate a clear understanding of asthma management.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve asthma care in rural areas like Trenton. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer virtual visits for routine check-ups, medication refills, and asthma education are particularly beneficial. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists, such as pulmonologists, who may not be readily available in Trenton. Assessing the availability of telemedicine is essential for evaluating the accessibility of asthma care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of asthma management. Asthma can have a significant impact on mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Patients who struggle to manage their asthma may also experience mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, in Trenton is therefore a critical factor. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care, or that offer referrals to mental health providers, are likely to provide a more holistic and effective approach.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, is also important. While PCPs manage the majority of asthma cases, some patients require the expertise of a pulmonologist for complex or severe asthma. The proximity of pulmonologists to Trenton, and the ease with which patients can access their services, can impact the quality of care. Travel time to specialists is a significant consideration in rural areas.

Analyzing the availability of asthma medications is another important aspect. The presence of local pharmacies, and their ability to stock a wide range of asthma medications, is critical. Patients need reliable access to their medications to effectively manage their asthma. The cost of medications is also a factor, and the availability of patient assistance programs can be helpful.

Community resources can also play a role in asthma management. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and community health initiatives can provide valuable support to asthma patients. Public health departments and local organizations may offer resources such as asthma education classes or information about environmental triggers.

Environmental factors are also relevant. The air quality in Trenton, including levels of pollutants and allergens, can significantly impact asthma sufferers. Information about local air quality, and any initiatives to improve it, can be beneficial.

Overall, assessing the "Asthma Score" for Trenton requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialists, medication availability, community resources, and environmental factors. This information should be considered in a holistic manner to provide a comprehensive view of the asthma care environment.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can visually represent the location of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, providing a valuable tool for understanding the landscape of asthma care in Trenton and the surrounding areas.