28619, Drexel, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28619, Drexel, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.86 percent of the residents in 28619 has some form of health insurance. 18.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.94 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 28619 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28619. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 27 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,413 health care providers accessible to residents in 28619, Drexel, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Drexel, NC (ZIP Code 28619)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, within Drexel, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28619), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in an "Asthma Score" assessment. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing asthma in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Drexel, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments for asthma patients. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board, when combined, allow for a preliminary estimation of this ratio. This estimation must be regularly updated, considering physician retirements, relocation, and the influx of new residents. This base ratio is a starting point for understanding the overall accessibility of care.

Beyond simple numbers, the characteristics of the medical practices within Drexel significantly impact asthma care. Are there practices with a dedicated focus on respiratory illnesses? Do they employ certified asthma educators who can provide patient education and support? The presence of specialized equipment, such as spirometry devices for lung function testing, is another crucial indicator. Practices that actively participate in asthma-focused quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), generally demonstrate a higher commitment to best practices. These practices are often identified by reviewing physician profiles and practice websites, noting any certifications or specializations.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within Drexel’s medical practices offers several advantages. Telemedicine enables remote consultations, allowing patients to connect with their physicians for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and symptom monitoring without the need for in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those living in rural areas with limited transportation options. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites and contacting practices directly to determine the availability of telehealth services. The quality of the technology used, including secure video conferencing platforms and remote monitoring devices, also plays a role in evaluating its effectiveness.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to psychological distress. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is a crucial aspect of comprehensive asthma management. This includes the availability of on-site therapists or counselors, or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals in the community. The ability of a practice to screen for mental health issues and provide appropriate support significantly enhances the overall quality of care for asthma patients. This component is assessed by reviewing practice websites, inquiring about mental health services during practice assessments, and researching local mental health resources.

Identifying standout practices within Drexel is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care, incorporating best practices in diagnosis, treatment, and patient education. They may have a higher concentration of certified asthma educators, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, and actively participate in asthma-focused research or quality improvement programs. These practices are identified through a combination of factors, including patient reviews, physician ratings, and data from healthcare quality organizations. The “Asthma Score” will be influenced by the presence of these standout practices.

The "Asthma Score" for Drexel (ZIP Code 28619) is a composite metric reflecting the factors discussed above. It is not a single numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment that considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized asthma care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score is relative, comparing Drexel’s healthcare landscape to benchmarks and best practices in asthma management. It considers the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

A high "Asthma Score" indicates a strong healthcare environment for asthma patients, characterized by readily available PCPs, specialized asthma care, convenient telemedicine options, and integrated mental health resources. A lower score suggests potential challenges, such as limited access to care, a lack of specialized services, and a need for improved integration of mental health support. The score is intended to be a dynamic assessment, reflecting the ever-changing healthcare landscape.

The information gathered and analyzed forms the basis of this assessment. It is essential to acknowledge the limitations of the data, including the potential for incomplete information and the dynamic nature of the healthcare environment. Regular updates and ongoing data collection are necessary to maintain the accuracy and relevance of the "Asthma Score."

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Drexel, including the precise locations of medical practices, physician specializations, and the availability of various services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and quality within the community.