28683, Thurmond, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.37 percent of the residents in 28683 has some form of health insurance. 55.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.65 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 28683 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28683. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 329 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 28683, Thurmond, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses asthma care and primary care availability in Thurmond, North Carolina, focusing on physicians within ZIP code 28683. This evaluation considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive care for asthma patients.

Thurmond, a small community, likely presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population base may influence the availability of specialized services and the overall physician landscape. Examining the specifics of the healthcare ecosystem within this ZIP code is essential to understanding the realities of asthma management for its residents.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. The ideal ratio is dependent on various factors, including the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases like asthma, and the presence of supporting healthcare staff. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate limited access to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased hospitalizations for asthma exacerbations. Conversely, a high ratio might suggest better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups, proactive management, and patient education. Research into the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 28683 would be the first step in determining the accessibility of care.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is critical. These practices might demonstrate excellence in asthma management through various means. They may boast a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, allergists, nurses, and respiratory therapists. They might employ evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), to guide treatment decisions. Furthermore, these practices could have a strong focus on patient education, empowering individuals to self-manage their condition and recognize early warning signs of asthma attacks.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the assessment. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in asthma care, particularly in rural areas. It enables patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Telemedicine can facilitate regular monitoring of asthma symptoms, medication adjustments, and patient education. Examining the extent to which practices in 28683 have embraced telemedicine technologies, including video consultations, remote monitoring devices, and patient portals, is essential. Practices with robust telemedicine programs likely provide more accessible and convenient care.

The integration of mental health resources is a vital consideration. Asthma, a chronic illness, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common in individuals with asthma, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals is crucial. Assessing whether practices in 28683 offer on-site mental health professionals or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists is a key component of a comprehensive asthma care assessment.

Specific practice characteristics should be evaluated. This includes the availability of spirometry testing, a key diagnostic tool for asthma. The presence of asthma education programs, such as those led by certified asthma educators, is another important factor. Furthermore, the practice's approach to medication management, including adherence monitoring and patient counseling, plays a critical role in asthma control. The assessment should also consider the practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to share information with other healthcare providers.

Primary care availability in Thurmond, beyond the specific ZIP code, also influences asthma care. The presence of a strong primary care network is essential for several reasons. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients with asthma. They can provide initial diagnoses, initiate treatment plans, and monitor patients' progress. A robust primary care network ensures that patients have timely access to care and can receive ongoing support. The analysis should consider the number of PCPs in Thurmond, their geographic distribution, and their capacity to accept new patients.

The analysis should also examine the availability of specialist care, such as pulmonologists and allergists. While PCPs often manage asthma, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma may require specialist care. The presence of specialists within a reasonable distance from Thurmond is crucial for ensuring access to advanced diagnostic testing and specialized treatments. The analysis should identify the nearest specialists and assess the ease with which patients can access their services.

Furthermore, the assessment should consider the affordability of healthcare services. The cost of asthma medications, office visits, and other related expenses can be a significant burden for patients. The analysis should examine the insurance coverage options available in Thurmond and assess the affordability of care for residents. The availability of financial assistance programs and patient support services should also be considered.

In conclusion, a thorough asthma score analysis for doctors in ZIP code 28683 and primary care availability in Thurmond requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, examining mental health resource integration, and considering various practice characteristics. It also necessitates an evaluation of primary care and specialist availability, as well as the affordability of healthcare services. This comprehensive assessment will provide a valuable understanding of the healthcare landscape in Thurmond and identify areas for improvement.

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