28604, Banner Elk, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28604, Banner Elk, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.15 percent of the residents in 28604 has some form of health insurance. 38.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.61 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 28604 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,571 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28604. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,819 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,912 health care providers accessible to residents in 28604, Banner Elk, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28604 and Primary Care in Banner Elk**

Evaluating healthcare access, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma, requires a nuanced approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 28604 (Banner Elk, North Carolina) to assess the availability and quality of primary care, a critical component in asthma management. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and consider the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" perspective, focusing on the elements most pertinent to effective asthma care within this specific geographical area.

The initial consideration is physician density. Banner Elk, a relatively small community, likely experiences a lower physician-to-patient ratio than more urban centers. This impacts access to timely appointments, a crucial factor in asthma control. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for routine check-ups, medication refills, and acute exacerbations. This delay can worsen asthma symptoms and increase the risk of hospitalizations. Conversely, a favorable ratio facilitates proactive care, allowing for regular monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans.

Within the 28604 ZIP code, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. These doctors are the gatekeepers to asthma management, providing initial diagnoses, prescribing medications, and coordinating care with specialists if needed. The types of PCPs available – family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatricians – also influence the overall "Asthma Score." A diverse group of PCPs ensures that patients of all ages can access appropriate care. The presence of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists, though specialists, further elevates the score, as they provide advanced expertise for complex asthma cases.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices demonstrate excellence in asthma care through various means. They may offer extended hours, same-day appointments for acute asthma flares, and robust patient education programs. The availability of certified asthma educators, who can teach patients about triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques, is a significant advantage. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as tracking asthma control rates and implementing evidence-based guidelines, also contribute to a higher score. These practices often have dedicated staff trained in asthma management, ensuring a cohesive and patient-centered approach.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions. Its adoption within the 28604 ZIP code can significantly impact the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially during periods of poor asthma control. Virtual visits can facilitate medication adjustments, provide quick responses to symptom changes, and offer ongoing support. Practices that embrace telemedicine, integrating it seamlessly into their workflow, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data directly to the physician, further enhances the value of telemedicine.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical factor. Asthma and mental health are often intertwined. Anxiety and depression can worsen asthma symptoms, while the burden of managing a chronic illness can contribute to mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or medication management, significantly improve the overall "Asthma Score." This integrated approach addresses the holistic needs of the patient, leading to better asthma control and improved quality of life. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals ensures coordinated care and reduces the risk of adverse outcomes.

The "Asthma Score" for the 28604 ZIP code would be influenced by the availability of these elements. A high score would reflect a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, a diverse range of PCPs, standout practices with dedicated asthma management programs, widespread telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. A lower score would indicate challenges in these areas, potentially leading to poorer asthma control and increased healthcare utilization.

Analyzing the specific practices within the area is critical. Researching individual practices to determine their specific offerings is essential. Are there practices that have a high patient satisfaction rating? Do they offer extended hours? Do they have a dedicated asthma management program? Investigating the availability of certified asthma educators is also key. The presence of these elements will directly influence the "Asthma Score."

The geographical challenges of Banner Elk, a mountain community, must also be considered. Travel can be difficult, especially during inclement weather. This underscores the importance of telemedicine and the availability of accessible healthcare options. The "Asthma Score" must account for these geographical barriers and assess how healthcare providers are addressing them.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Asthma Score" for 28604 requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. Physician density, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all play crucial roles. By carefully considering these elements, we can gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 28604 and beyond, and to map out physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare access and resource distribution, allowing for a more informed perspective on asthma care and other health-related needs.