28611, Collettsville, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28611, Collettsville, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.63 percent of the residents in 28611 has some form of health insurance. 75.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.05 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 28611 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 28611. An estimate of 20 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 131 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,756 health care providers accessible to residents in 28611, Collettsville, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: 28611 & Collettsville Primary Care

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within ZIP code 28611 and the availability of primary care resources in the broader Collettsville area requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess not only the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the asthma care environment, considering factors that directly impact patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in readily available primary care. Collettsville, being a relatively rural area, likely faces challenges related to physician distribution. A key metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative care, and potential delays in managing asthma exacerbations. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to estimate this ratio. This data, however, only provides a snapshot. It doesn't fully capture the complexities of physician specialization, patient demographics, and the overall health of the community.

Within ZIP code 28611, the presence of specific primary care practices warrants closer examination. The reputation and track record of these practices are crucial. Are they actively managing asthma patients? Do they adhere to established guidelines for asthma treatment and management? Do they have certified asthma educators on staff? Patient reviews, online ratings, and referrals from specialists can offer insights into the quality of care provided. Identifying standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in asthma management, can serve as a model for improvement across the area. These practices often proactively engage patients, providing education on triggers, medication adherence, and emergency action plans.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing the frequency of follow-up appointments. For asthma patients, this can be particularly beneficial, enabling remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and timely interventions during exacerbations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within 28611 and the surrounding areas is crucial. This includes determining which practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the technology platforms used.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can significantly impact asthma control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Are primary care practices in 28611 integrated with mental health services? Do they offer on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals? The presence of these resources is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach to asthma management.

Furthermore, the infrastructure supporting asthma care needs evaluation. This includes the availability of diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, and the presence of asthma-specific education programs. Are local pharmacies well-stocked with asthma medications and devices, such as inhalers and spacers? Are there community-based programs that provide education on asthma triggers and management techniques? The presence of these resources contributes to a supportive environment for asthma patients.

Beyond the immediate medical care, the broader social determinants of health play a significant role in asthma outcomes. These factors include housing quality, air quality, and socioeconomic status. Poor housing conditions, such as mold and dust mites, can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Air pollution from traffic or industrial sources can also trigger asthma attacks. Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and lack of access to health insurance, can limit access to care and medication. Analyzing these factors within the context of 28611 and Collettsville provides a more complete picture of the challenges faced by asthma patients.

Analyzing the quality of care also involves evaluating the utilization of evidence-based practices. This includes the use of inhaled corticosteroids as a first-line treatment for persistent asthma, the regular assessment of asthma control using standardized questionnaires, and the development of personalized asthma action plans for each patient. Practices that consistently adhere to these guidelines are more likely to achieve optimal asthma control.

The role of insurance coverage is another critical element. The type of insurance coverage, whether private, public, or uninsured, can significantly affect access to care and medication affordability. Analyzing the insurance landscape within 28611 and Collettsville is essential to understanding the barriers to care faced by asthma patients.

Ultimately, the 'Asthma Score' for 28611 and Collettsville is not a single number but a composite assessment based on multiple factors. It reflects the interplay of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, social determinants of health, and the adherence to evidence-based practices. This holistic approach provides a more accurate and actionable understanding of the asthma care landscape, highlighting areas for improvement and guiding efforts to enhance the health and well-being of asthma patients in the community.

To visualize and explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice locations, and the geographic distribution of asthma prevalence, consider leveraging the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to analyze the data and identify areas of need.