28665, Purlear, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28665, Purlear, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 28665 has some form of health insurance. 45.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.56 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 28665 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 497 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28665. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 538 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,034 health care providers accessible to residents in 28665, Purlear, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Purlear, NC (ZIP Code 28665)

Purlear, North Carolina, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Evaluating the "Asthma Score" for doctors within the 28665 ZIP code and assessing primary care availability requires a nuanced approach, considering the rural context and potential resource limitations. This analysis delves into key factors impacting asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for a comprehensive understanding of asthma care in this community.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Purlear is a critical starting point. Rural areas often face shortages, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to specialized care. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from the American Medical Association, is necessary to determine the precise ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would negatively impact the "Asthma Score." This scarcity can affect the ability of asthma sufferers to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management, all vital components of effective asthma control.

Identifying standout practices within the 28665 ZIP code is essential. These practices might demonstrate superior asthma management strategies, such as adherence to national guidelines, patient education programs, and comprehensive treatment plans. Analyzing patient reviews, surveying local community groups, and consulting with healthcare professionals would reveal practices excelling in asthma care. Factors to consider include the availability of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists, the use of spirometry and other diagnostic tools, and the implementation of asthma action plans. Practices demonstrating these characteristics would significantly boost the overall "Asthma Score" for the area.

Telemedicine's role in asthma management is increasingly vital, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine offers remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, potentially mitigating the impact of geographical barriers. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by primary care providers and specialists in Purlear is crucial. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms for asthma follow-up appointments, medication refills, and educational sessions would positively impact the "Asthma Score." Assessing the availability of telehealth infrastructure, patient access to technology, and the integration of telehealth into existing care workflows are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a crucial role in asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within the 28665 ZIP code is vital. Are there mental health professionals available for consultation? Do primary care practices screen for mental health issues in asthma patients? Collaboration between primary care providers, mental health specialists, and asthma specialists is essential for holistic patient care. The presence of integrated mental health services would positively influence the "Asthma Score."

Primary care availability in Purlear directly impacts asthma care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for asthma patients. They are responsible for diagnosis, initial treatment, and ongoing management. A robust primary care network is essential for ensuring timely access to care. Assessing the number of PCPs in the area, their appointment availability, and their expertise in asthma management is crucial. Practices with extended hours, weekend appointments, and a focus on patient education would positively influence the "Asthma Score."

Specific practice examples within the 28665 ZIP code would be needed to provide concrete examples. However, the analysis would examine the following. Does a practice offer evening or weekend appointments to accommodate working families? Does a practice have a dedicated asthma educator or nurse specialist? Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and communicate with specialists? Does the practice participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about asthma? The answers to these questions would help determine the "Asthma Score" for the area.

Furthermore, the analysis would consider the availability of resources such as asthma support groups, patient education materials, and access to affordable medications. The presence of these resources would positively impact the "Asthma Score." Evaluating the accessibility of pharmacies, the availability of generic medications, and the presence of financial assistance programs for asthma medications are all important considerations.

The "Asthma Score" is not a single number but a composite measure reflecting the quality and accessibility of asthma care in Purlear. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more effective asthma management strategies, and a greater focus on patient well-being. A lower score would indicate potential challenges in accessing care, limited resources, and a need for improvement.

The evaluation process should also include an assessment of the local environment. Air quality, pollen counts, and other environmental factors can significantly impact asthma symptoms. Information from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality would be valuable in this regard. This data could be integrated into patient education and management strategies.

In conclusion, a comprehensive "Asthma Score" analysis for Purlear, NC (28665) requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and primary care availability. This analysis, coupled with environmental data, will provide a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities in asthma care within this rural community.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources and environmental factors in Purlear, NC, and the surrounding areas, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps.