28715, Candler, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28715, Candler, North Carolina is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.47 percent of the residents in 28715 has some form of health insurance. 33.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.35 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 28715 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28715. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,133 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,528 health care providers accessible to residents in 28715, Candler, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28715 and Primary Care Availability in Candler

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 28715, encompassing Candler, North Carolina, to assess the availability of primary care physicians, particularly in relation to asthma management. We’ll explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and consider the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a call to action for utilizing advanced mapping tools.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management is consistent access to primary care. In Candler (ZIP code 28715), understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric reveals the potential burden on existing healthcare providers. A high ratio, indicating a larger patient population per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised quality of care. Conversely, a low ratio suggests better access and potentially improved patient outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from physician directories and insurance providers, can provide an initial estimate of this ratio. However, this estimate alone is insufficient. The actual burden depends on factors like the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic conditions like asthma, and the number of specialists available to support primary care physicians.

Identifying standout practices within the Candler area is essential. This involves looking beyond the basic physician-to-patient ratio and assessing the quality of care delivered. Factors to consider include the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of specialized asthma care (e.g., pulmonologists or allergists), and the implementation of evidence-based asthma management protocols. Practices that actively engage in patient education, provide comprehensive asthma action plans, and offer readily accessible resources for managing asthma exacerbations deserve recognition. Reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online ratings, and consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups can help identify these exemplary practices. Furthermore, assessing the availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as pulmonary function testing, can streamline the diagnostic and treatment process, contributing to better asthma control.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas like Candler. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, reduce travel time for patients, and facilitate remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in 28715 is a key factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. This involves examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices (e.g., peak flow meters with data transmission capabilities), and the use of digital platforms for patient education and medication management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially serve a wider patient population and provide more convenient and proactive care. However, the success of telemedicine depends on factors like internet access, patient digital literacy, and the integration of telemedicine platforms with existing electronic health records.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the Candler area is a critical component of a comprehensive asthma care assessment. This includes evaluating the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health screening tools into routine care. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide accessible resources for patients struggling with these issues are better positioned to deliver holistic and effective asthma management. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for addressing the complex needs of asthma patients.

Evaluating the availability of asthma-specific resources is also important. This includes access to asthma educators, support groups, and community-based programs that provide education and support to patients and their families. The presence of these resources can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition and improve their overall quality of life. Furthermore, assessing the availability of emergency services and the proximity to hospitals equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is crucial for ensuring timely and effective treatment during acute episodes.

Analyzing the factors discussed above, from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of mental health resources, allows for a more comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment. This score, though not a single, definitive number, reflects the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care available in ZIP code 28715. The score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, inform healthcare planning, and guide efforts to improve asthma management in the Candler community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Candler and visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps, with their ability to integrate diverse datasets and create interactive visualizations, can provide valuable insights into physician locations, patient demographics, and the availability of healthcare services. By leveraging these tools, you can gain a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to asthma care in the Candler area. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze healthcare data, leading to better-informed decisions and improved patient outcomes.