28657, Newland, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28657, Newland, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.38 percent of the residents in 28657 has some form of health insurance. 44.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.04 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 28657 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,442 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28657. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,277 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,149 health care providers accessible to residents in 28657, Newland, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Newland, NC (ZIP Code 28657)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Newland, North Carolina (ZIP code 28657) requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. The score will be based on several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive asthma management.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Newland, a primarily rural area, this metric is particularly critical. A low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly hinder access to timely and consistent care. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside information from the American Medical Association, would be essential to determine the precise ratio within the 28657 ZIP code. This data would then be compared to state and national averages to provide context. A below-average ratio would negatively impact the Asthma Score, indicating potential challenges in securing appointments, managing chronic conditions, and responding to acute asthma exacerbations.

Beyond mere numbers, the types of physicians available are paramount. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for asthma management. Their expertise in diagnosing, treating, and coordinating care is vital. The availability of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists within or near the ZIP code is also crucial. Specialists possess advanced knowledge and can manage complex asthma cases, including those resistant to standard treatments. The presence of these specialists would significantly enhance the Asthma Score, reflecting a more robust and comprehensive healthcare infrastructure. Conversely, a lack of specialized care would lower the score, forcing patients to travel significant distances for specialized treatment.

Examining the practices themselves reveals further insights. Are there any standout practices in Newland that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care? This requires evaluating factors such as: patient education materials, the use of standardized asthma action plans, the availability of spirometry testing (a pulmonary function test), and the integration of asthma-specific support programs. Practices that proactively address these elements would receive higher marks, contributing positively to the Asthma Score. Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are important for care coordination. Practices using advanced EHR systems are better equipped to share patient information with specialists and other healthcare providers, improving continuity of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with convenient access to consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring. Practices that offer telehealth services for asthma management would receive a higher score. This includes virtual appointments, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and educational resources accessible online. The accessibility of telehealth would be a major advantage for patients in Newland, potentially improving adherence to treatment plans and reducing the need for emergency room visits.

The often-overlooked connection between asthma and mental health also influences the Asthma Score. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists and counselors, within the healthcare system or the community, is therefore crucial. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to appropriate services would receive a higher score. This integration of mental healthcare demonstrates a holistic approach to patient well-being, improving overall outcomes for asthma patients.

Assessing primary care availability in Newland is a vital component of the analysis. The number of PCPs accepting new patients, their appointment wait times, and their accessibility (e.g., office hours, weekend availability) all influence the score. A shortage of PCPs or long wait times would negatively affect the Asthma Score, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a readily available and accessible primary care system would improve the score, ensuring patients can receive timely and consistent care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of asthma-related resources within the community. This includes support groups, educational programs, and access to affordable medications. The presence of community resources would enhance the Asthma Score, demonstrating a supportive environment for asthma patients. Conversely, a lack of such resources would negatively impact the score, potentially leaving patients feeling isolated and unsupported.

The Asthma Score, therefore, would be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these factors. It would not be a single number but a nuanced assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system. The final score would provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, guiding efforts to improve asthma care in Newland.

For a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, practice locations, and other relevant data points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the community, offering valuable insights for informed decision-making.