28729, Etowah, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28729, Etowah, North Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.25 percent of the residents in 28729 has some form of health insurance. 47.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.90 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 28729 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28729. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 969 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,205 health care providers accessible to residents in 28729, Etowah, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28729 and Primary Care in Etowah

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care within ZIP code 28729, which encompasses Etowah, North Carolina, requires a multi-faceted approach. This assessment delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the specific practices offered, the integration of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and ultimately, the overall "Asthma Score" for this community. This score reflects the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing asthma.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. In Etowah, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a critical factor. A lower ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary asthma management and treatment. Researching the current population data alongside the number of practicing primary care physicians within 28729 will establish a baseline understanding of the accessibility of care. This data point alone is insufficient but serves as a foundational metric.

Beyond raw numbers, the specific practices of available physicians are vital. Do these physicians have a demonstrated expertise in asthma management? Do they follow the latest guidelines from organizations like the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Are they equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, to accurately assess lung function? The availability of specialized equipment and the adoption of evidence-based practices significantly impact the Asthma Score. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide personalized asthma action plans, and offer regular follow-up appointments will score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Etowah. Virtual consultations can facilitate medication refills, provide asthma education, and monitor patients' conditions remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will be viewed favorably in this analysis. This is particularly relevant for patients with mobility limitations or those who live far from a clinic.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as essential in asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either in-house or through referrals, will be considered to provide a more holistic approach to patient care. The availability of these resources directly influences the overall quality of care and the Asthma Score.

Identifying standout practices within 28729 is a key objective. This involves researching individual physician profiles, reviewing patient testimonials, and assessing the services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, actively engage in asthma education, and provide comprehensive management plans will stand out. These practices often have a positive impact on patient outcomes and contribute to a higher Asthma Score for the community.

The Asthma Score is not a static measure. It is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Factors like physician turnover, changes in insurance coverage, and advancements in medical technology can all influence the score. Therefore, continuous monitoring and assessment are necessary to ensure that patients in Etowah have access to the best possible asthma care.

The overall Asthma Score for 28729, therefore, is a composite of these factors. It is a reflection of the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a community with readily accessible, high-quality asthma care, while a low score suggests areas for improvement.

Data collection for this analysis requires a multi-pronged approach. Publicly available data, such as physician directories and population statistics, provide a baseline understanding. Gathering information from local healthcare providers, including surveys and interviews, can provide deeper insights into their practices and services. Patient feedback, through online reviews and patient advocacy groups, offers valuable perspectives on the patient experience.

Analyzing this information will reveal the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in Etowah. This analysis can then be used to identify areas where improvements are needed. This might include advocating for increased physician recruitment, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, or increasing the availability of mental health resources.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive understanding of asthma care in 28729. By evaluating the various factors discussed, it is possible to determine the overall Asthma Score and identify areas where improvements can be made to better serve the community. The ultimate aim is to ensure that individuals with asthma in Etowah have access to the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

This in-depth analysis allows for a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Etowah, NC. The data collected and analyzed will provide a framework for understanding the accessibility and quality of asthma care. This framework can then be used to identify areas for improvement and advocate for better patient outcomes.