28589, Williston, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28589, Williston, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 44.74 percent of the residents in 28589 has some form of health insurance. 44.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 28589 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28589. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,066 health care providers accessible to residents in 28589, Williston, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28589 & Primary Care in Williston

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP code 28589, encompassing the town of Swansboro, North Carolina, and examines the availability of primary care services in the broader Williston area. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and the availability of supporting mental health resources. This assessment is not a definitive ranking but rather a composite evaluation, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. In ZIP code 28589, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical element. While precise figures fluctuate, the area, particularly Swansboro, often experiences challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to a higher patient-to-doctor ratio than the national average. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient, and difficulties in establishing a consistent patient-physician relationship, all of which can negatively impact asthma control. The Williston area, with its more rural character, may face even greater challenges in primary care accessibility.

Evaluating the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Within 28589, practices vary in their approach to asthma management. Some may demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based guidelines, incorporating spirometry testing, asthma action plans, and regular patient education. Others might be less focused on these aspects, potentially leading to suboptimal asthma control and increased exacerbations. The "Asthma Score" would consider factors like the practice's adoption of national guidelines, the availability of specialized asthma education, and the patient's reported satisfaction with their care.

One of the standout practices in the area, while not specifically named here, demonstrates a commendable approach. This practice has embraced a proactive model, focusing on preventative care and patient empowerment. They offer dedicated asthma education sessions, provide detailed asthma action plans tailored to individual needs, and actively monitor patients' asthma control through regular follow-up appointments and medication reviews. This practice’s commitment to comprehensive care significantly contributes to its higher "Asthma Score."

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges. In a region with potential access limitations, telemedicine can bridge the gap, offering virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. However, the success of telemedicine hinges on several factors: patient access to reliable internet and technology, physician comfort with virtual platforms, and the ability to conduct thorough assessments remotely. The "Asthma Score" would assess the availability and utilization of telemedicine services within practices in 28589, considering both its potential benefits and the barriers to its implementation.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the link between asthma and mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and these conditions can significantly worsen asthma symptoms and overall quality of life. The "Asthma Score" would assess the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide or facilitate access to appropriate care would receive a higher score. The integration of mental health services is crucial for holistic asthma management.

The Williston area, given its more rural nature, may face even greater challenges in accessing mental health resources. The "Asthma Score" would factor in the distance to mental health providers, the availability of telehealth options for mental health care, and any community initiatives aimed at addressing mental health needs.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for ZIP code 28589 and the broader Williston area reflects a complex interplay of factors. While some practices demonstrate exemplary care, challenges remain in physician access, the consistent application of evidence-based guidelines, the effective utilization of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The overall "Asthma Score" is likely moderate, with room for improvement across several key areas.

The availability of primary care in Williston, a more rural setting, presents additional challenges. The "Asthma Score" for Williston would be lower, reflecting potentially greater difficulties in accessing timely and comprehensive asthma care.

The assessment of the "Asthma Score" is a dynamic process. Data collection, ongoing evaluation, and the willingness to adapt to changing needs are essential for improving asthma care within the region. Continuous monitoring of key metrics, such as patient outcomes, medication adherence, and the utilization of healthcare resources, is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and measuring the effectiveness of interventions.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28589 and the Williston area, including the location of practices, access to specialists, and the distribution of resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and supporting data-driven decision-making.