28702, Almond, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28702, Almond, North Carolina is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.22 percent of the residents in 28702 has some form of health insurance. 28.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.33 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 28702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28702. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 589 health care providers accessible to residents in 28702, Almond, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28702 and Primary Care Availability in Almond**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 28702, encompassing the Almond community, requires a nuanced approach, particularly when assessing asthma care and primary care access. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all while considering the unique context of a rural area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator of access to care. In a rural setting like Almond, the ratio is likely to be less favorable compared to urban areas. This means fewer physicians are available to serve a potentially dispersed population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatments, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. The specific physician-to-patient ratio for 28702 needs to be determined through data analysis. Publicly available data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide this information. However, a simple numerical ratio doesn’t tell the whole story. The distribution of specialists, the age and health of the population, and the presence of underserved populations all influence the impact of this ratio.

Identifying standout practices within 28702 is crucial. Practices that prioritize asthma management, demonstrate a commitment to patient education, and offer comprehensive care should be highlighted. This requires evaluating several factors. Does the practice have a dedicated asthma specialist or a physician with a strong interest in pulmonology? Does the practice utilize evidence-based guidelines for asthma treatment, such as those from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)? Does the practice offer patient education programs on asthma triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques? Are they proactive in scheduling follow-up appointments and monitoring patients' asthma control? Practices that excel in these areas are essential for providing quality asthma care in the community.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in a rural area like Almond. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care from specialists located further away. It can also improve access to primary care for routine follow-ups and medication management. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires evaluating the availability of telehealth services among local practices. Do they offer virtual consultations for asthma management, including medication refills and symptom monitoring? Do they utilize remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters or spirometers, to track patients' lung function? Are they connected to specialists who can provide virtual consultations for complex cases? Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for asthma patients in 28702.

The intersection of asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Conversely, mental health conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and make it more difficult to manage the condition. Therefore, assessing the availability of mental health resources is crucial. Are there mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers, available in the Almond community or nearby? Do primary care practices screen patients for mental health conditions and offer referrals to mental health services? Are there support groups or educational programs available to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of asthma? A comprehensive approach to asthma care must address both the physical and mental health needs of patients.

Primary care availability in Almond is a foundational element of the healthcare ecosystem. The presence of primary care physicians is essential for managing chronic conditions like asthma, providing preventive care, and coordinating referrals to specialists. Analyzing primary care availability involves assessing the number of primary care physicians, their specialties, and their practice locations. Are there enough primary care physicians to meet the needs of the community? Are they accepting new patients? Do they have experience in managing asthma? The accessibility of primary care is a critical factor in ensuring that asthma patients receive timely and appropriate care.

The analysis must also consider the specific challenges faced by the Almond community. Rural communities often experience disparities in healthcare access due to factors such as poverty, lack of transportation, and limited internet access. These factors can disproportionately affect asthma patients, making it more difficult for them to access care and manage their condition. The analysis should identify these challenges and assess how local healthcare providers are addressing them. Are there programs to assist patients with transportation or medication costs? Are there efforts to improve internet access and digital literacy? Are there culturally sensitive healthcare services available?

In conclusion, a comprehensive asthma score analysis for 28702 and Almond requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, exploring mental health resources, and analyzing primary care availability. It must also consider the unique challenges faced by the rural community. By understanding these factors, healthcare providers and policymakers can work together to improve asthma care and ensure that all patients have access to the resources they need to live healthy lives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28702, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize complex healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in your community.