28746, Lake Lure, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28746, Lake Lure, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.02 percent of the residents in 28746 has some form of health insurance. 55.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.63 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 28746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 453 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28746. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 868 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,941 health care providers accessible to residents in 28746, Lake Lure, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28746 & Primary Care in Lake Lure

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 28746, which encompasses Lake Lure, requires a multi-faceted approach. An "Asthma Score" isn't a standardized metric, but for this analysis, it will be a composite assessment based on several key factors: physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all crucial for effective asthma management. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this specific area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. Determining the exact ratio within 28746 requires accessing data from the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau. We must identify the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists practicing within the zip code. Then, we will determine the population size. A low physician-to-patient ratio, especially for specialists like pulmonologists, can significantly impact asthma care. It may lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better accessibility.

Beyond raw numbers, the type and characteristics of medical practices are important. Are there any standout practices specializing in respiratory care or offering comprehensive asthma management programs? These programs often include patient education, peak flow monitoring, and personalized asthma action plans. Are these practices accepting new patients, and do they accept a broad range of insurance plans? This information would be critical for determining the "Asthma Score." A practice with a dedicated asthma clinic, experienced staff, and a commitment to patient education would undoubtedly score higher.

Telemedicine has become increasingly relevant in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within 28746 is a crucial component of the "Asthma Score." Does the area's primary care network offer virtual consultations for routine check-ups, medication refills, and symptom monitoring? Telemedicine can improve access for patients who have difficulty traveling, live in rural areas, or have mobility issues. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as connected peak flow meters, would further enhance the score, allowing for proactive management and early intervention.

Asthma and mental health are intertwined. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. The "Asthma Score" must consider the availability of mental health resources. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists, accepting new patients within the zip code or in nearby communities? Do primary care practices integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their asthma care protocols? A strong connection between asthma care and mental health support would significantly improve the overall score.

Researching individual practices requires gathering information from multiple sources. Websites, online directories, and patient reviews provide insights into practice specialties, services offered, and patient satisfaction. Local healthcare providers and community health centers are important resources. The local hospital system would also be a source for information on specialists and programs. Contacting the practices directly can confirm information and assess the level of responsiveness to patient inquiries.

The analysis will consider the quality of care. Are physicians board-certified in their respective specialties? Do practices participate in quality improvement initiatives? Are they using evidence-based guidelines for asthma management? The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also important. EHRs facilitate information sharing between providers, which is essential for coordinated care.

The "Asthma Score" is dynamic. It changes with new information. The opening of a new practice, the adoption of telemedicine, or the expansion of mental health services would all positively impact the score. Conversely, a shortage of physicians or the closure of a practice would negatively impact it.

The geographical location of Lake Lure is also a factor. The surrounding areas may offer additional healthcare options. This analysis will consider the accessibility of these resources, including travel time and transportation options. Public transportation and ride-sharing services are important, especially for patients with limited mobility.

The final "Asthma Score" will be a composite score. It will reflect the various factors discussed above. The score can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better asthma care resources within 28746. This analysis is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is a tool to understand the healthcare landscape.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources in the Lake Lure area, including physician locations, practice specialties, and potential access challenges, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps allow you to overlay and analyze data, providing a clear, actionable view of the healthcare landscape.