28678, Stony Point, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28678, Stony Point, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.26 percent of the residents in 28678 has some form of health insurance. 37.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.53 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 28678 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,322 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28678. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 899 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,803 health care providers accessible to residents in 28678, Stony Point, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28678 and Primary Care Availability in Stony Point

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28678, which encompasses Stony Point, North Carolina, requires a multifaceted approach, especially when considering a chronic condition like asthma. An “Asthma Score,” in this context, would assess the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to asthma patients in the area. This analysis will delve into the key factors influencing this score, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of good asthma management lies in accessible and responsive primary care. Stony Point, a relatively rural community, presents challenges in this regard. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the Asthma Score. Low PCP density, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and delayed diagnosis and treatment. This directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive timely interventions and ongoing management, which are crucial for controlling the condition and preventing exacerbations.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. While precise data on the current ratio in 28678 requires specific data analysis from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, we can infer general challenges. Rural areas often struggle to attract and retain physicians, leading to higher patient loads for existing doctors. This can translate into shorter appointment times, less personalized care, and increased pressure on healthcare providers. The higher the ratio, the more likely it is that patients, particularly those with chronic conditions like asthma, may experience difficulties in accessing timely and comprehensive care.

Identifying standout practices is vital. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive asthma management, and innovative approaches. They may offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or specialized asthma clinics. These practices may also actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and implement evidence-based guidelines for asthma management. Researching the practices in the area, including patient reviews and testimonials, can provide valuable insights into their commitment to asthma care.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide remote monitoring capabilities. For asthma patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and education on asthma triggers and self-management techniques. The extent to which practices in 28678 have embraced telemedicine is a significant factor in the Asthma Score. Practices that offer telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication refills, are likely to contribute to a higher score.

The integration of mental health resources is also essential. Asthma, like any chronic illness, can have a significant impact on mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can worsen asthma symptoms and negatively affect treatment adherence. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, contribute to a more holistic approach to asthma care. This integration can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

Specific examples of practices and their characteristics within 28678 are essential for a detailed analysis. This would involve researching the services offered by each practice, their staffing levels, and their adoption of technology. For instance, a practice with a dedicated asthma educator, offering regular patient education sessions, would contribute positively to the Asthma Score. Similarly, a practice that actively monitors patient asthma control through regular assessments and medication adjustments would also score favorably.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices within Stony Point is also a consideration. Are practices clustered in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of the ZIP code? Analyzing the proximity of practices to residential areas is essential. The availability of public transportation and the presence of any transportation assistance programs for patients with limited mobility would also be valuable considerations.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score should consider the availability of specialized care. While primary care is the cornerstone of asthma management, access to pulmonologists (lung specialists) is crucial for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The distance to the nearest pulmonologist and the ease of referral processes from primary care practices are important factors.

The availability of after-hours care is another factor. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and access to care outside of regular office hours is critical. Practices that offer on-call services, or partnerships with urgent care centers, contribute to a higher Asthma Score.

The quality of communication between healthcare providers is also a factor. Effective communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals is crucial for coordinated care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and facilitate seamless information sharing are more likely to provide coordinated and effective asthma management.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score for 28678 is a reflection of the collective efforts of healthcare providers and the community to support asthma patients. It encompasses not only the availability of medical care but also the integration of mental health resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the commitment to patient education and self-management. A comprehensive analysis would involve gathering data from multiple sources, including practice websites, patient reviews, and local health authorities.

To visualize and understand the healthcare landscape in Stony Point, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the Asthma Score, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more informed assessment of the healthcare resources available to asthma patients in ZIP code 28678. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a visual perspective on the healthcare environment in Stony Point.