28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 57.18 percent of the residents in 28671 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.69 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 28671 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 25 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28671. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,873 health care providers accessible to residents in 28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Rutherford College, NC (ZIP Code 28671)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, especially concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the resources dedicated to asthma care within Rutherford College, NC (ZIP Code 28671). We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight potentially standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Asthma Score" based on these factors.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in accessible primary care. In Rutherford College, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise, real-time figures fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide a reasonable estimate. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, presents a significant challenge. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma management interventions. This is particularly concerning for a chronic condition like asthma, where consistent monitoring and timely adjustments to treatment plans are essential.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code matters. Are physicians clustered in one area, leaving certain neighborhoods underserved? This spatial analysis is vital for understanding accessibility. Public transportation options and the availability of accessible parking also contribute to the overall ease with which patients can access care. A high Asthma Score hinges on geographic equity in healthcare distribution.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key aspects of asthma management. Does a practice offer comprehensive asthma education for patients and their families? This includes training on inhaler techniques, understanding triggers, and recognizing early warning signs of exacerbations. Are practices equipped with spirometry, a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing lung function? Does the practice have a dedicated asthma nurse or respiratory therapist who can provide specialized care and support? Practices excelling in these areas are likely to achieve better patient outcomes and contribute positively to the overall Asthma Score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Rutherford College. Remote consultations can reduce the need for in-person visits, saving patients time and travel expenses. Telemedicine also facilitates more frequent monitoring of asthma symptoms and allows for prompt adjustments to medication regimens. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data directly to the physician, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their asthma care protocols will receive a higher score.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact quality of life. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into asthma care is crucial. Does the practice screen patients for mental health conditions? Do they have on-site mental health professionals or readily available referral networks? Practices that prioritize mental health support for their asthma patients demonstrate a more holistic approach to care and contribute positively to the Asthma Score.

Assessing the overall Asthma Score requires a synthesis of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the geographical distribution of PCPs, the quality of asthma education, the availability of spirometry and specialized staff, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all weighted and considered. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to manage asthma effectively, with accessible care, comprehensive education, and support for patients' overall well-being. Conversely, a low score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and strengthening mental health support.

The assessment is dynamic. Regular updates are needed to reflect changes in physician availability, practice innovations, and the evolving needs of the community. The quality of asthma care is not static; it is a continuous process of improvement and adaptation. The Asthma Score provides a snapshot in time, a valuable tool for identifying strengths and weaknesses, and a guide for healthcare providers and policymakers seeking to improve asthma outcomes in Rutherford College.

The overall Asthma Score for Rutherford College, NC (28671) will fluctuate based on the factors mentioned above. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services all play a crucial role in determining the final score. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive asthma management plans, and embrace technology will likely contribute to a higher score.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rutherford College and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of PCPs and other relevant facilities, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable spatial analysis of healthcare accessibility, allowing you to identify areas with limited access and inform strategies for improving asthma care in the community.