28601, Hickory, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28601, Hickory, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.26 percent of the residents in 28601 has some form of health insurance. 32.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.65 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 28601 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,106 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28601. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 9,002 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,117 health care providers accessible to residents in 28601, Hickory, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Hickory, NC (ZIP Code 28601)

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP code 28601, focusing on primary care physician availability and the resources offered to patients. We will assess the quality of care through an "Asthma Score" framework, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice models, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial components of comprehensive asthma management. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare ecosystem in Hickory, NC, and identify areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in readily accessible primary care. In ZIP code 28601, the physician-to-patient ratio plays a critical role. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased time spent with each patient, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. Data on this ratio is essential for a comprehensive Asthma Score. Publicly available information from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined, can provide a preliminary estimate. However, the accuracy of this estimate depends on the willingness of physicians to report and the currency of the data.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is also vital. Are physicians clustered in specific areas, leaving other parts of the ZIP code underserved? Are there sufficient pediatricians, given the prevalence of asthma in children? The Asthma Score should consider the geographical distribution of providers, ensuring equitable access for all residents. This geographical analysis can be enhanced by utilizing mapping tools that visualize physician locations and population density.

Standout practices within the 28601 area should be identified. These practices often serve as benchmarks for quality asthma care. They may demonstrate excellence through various means, such as employing certified asthma educators, utilizing standardized asthma action plans, and proactively managing patients' conditions. The Asthma Score should reward practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive care, and consistently achieve positive patient outcomes. Identifying these "best-practice" examples can help inform the community and promote the adoption of effective strategies.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative tool in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. The Asthma Score should evaluate the extent to which practices in 28601 have embraced telemedicine. Do they offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments? Can patients remotely monitor their lung function and share the data with their physicians? The availability of telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine can also reduce the burden on the healthcare system by minimizing unnecessary in-person visits.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the disease can contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the Asthma Score should assess the availability of mental health resources for asthma patients in 28601. Do primary care practices offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Do they screen patients for anxiety and depression? The integration of mental health support is crucial for holistic asthma management.

The Asthma Score can also incorporate data on medication adherence. Are practices actively involved in helping patients understand and adhere to their prescribed medications? Do they offer medication counseling or reminder systems? Poor medication adherence is a significant barrier to effective asthma control. The Asthma Score should recognize practices that proactively address this issue.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score should consider the accessibility of specialized asthma care. Are there pulmonologists or allergists within the ZIP code or in close proximity? While primary care physicians are the frontline providers, access to specialists is essential for patients with complex or uncontrolled asthma. The Asthma Score should assess the availability and accessibility of specialist care.

To create a robust Asthma Score, data from various sources must be integrated. This includes patient surveys, practice audits, and publicly available information. The score should be transparent and easily understandable, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their care. The score should also be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape over time.

The analysis of the healthcare landscape in Hickory, NC, and the creation of an Asthma Score is a complex undertaking. The ability to visualize this data is key to understanding the distribution of resources, identifying areas of need, and promoting equitable access to care.