28761, Nebo, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28761, Nebo, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.42 percent of the residents in 28761 has some form of health insurance. 41.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.90 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 28761 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,084 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28761. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,510 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,626 health care providers accessible to residents in 28761, Nebo, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Nebo, NC (ZIP Code 28761)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Nebo, North Carolina (ZIP code 28761) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the physician landscape, accessibility of care, and the integration of supportive services to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment. This analysis will delve into the key factors impacting asthma management within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any robust asthma care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Nebo, assessing PCP density is crucial. A low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly impede access to initial diagnoses, routine check-ups, and medication management. This ratio should be compared to state and national averages to determine if Nebo is experiencing a shortage. Furthermore, the types of PCPs available matter. Are there enough family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians to adequately serve the population, considering the prevalence of asthma across different age groups?

Beyond the sheer number of PCPs, the quality of care they deliver is paramount. This necessitates an evaluation of their expertise in asthma management. Do they have experience in treating asthma? Are they up-to-date on the latest guidelines and treatment protocols? This can be assessed through factors like board certifications, continuing medical education (CME) credits related to asthma, and patient satisfaction surveys. Practices that actively participate in asthma-focused quality improvement initiatives would score higher.

Within the local medical landscape, identifying standout practices is essential. These are practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in asthma care. This could involve a comprehensive approach to asthma management, including patient education, regular monitoring of lung function (spirometry), and personalized treatment plans. Such practices often utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, manage medications, and facilitate communication between patients and healthcare providers. They also proactively address environmental triggers and provide resources for asthma self-management.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly enhance asthma care accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Nebo. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine services for asthma management should be a key consideration. This includes assessing whether local PCPs offer telehealth appointments, the types of telehealth platforms they use, and the ease of access for patients.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma care system. This includes assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community. Are these professionals integrated into the primary care setting, facilitating referrals and collaborative care? Do they have experience working with patients with chronic respiratory conditions?

Another factor to consider is the availability of asthma-specific resources within the community. This could include asthma education programs, support groups, and access to specialized equipment like nebulizers and peak flow meters. Community health centers and local pharmacies often play a vital role in providing these resources.

Furthermore, the affordability of asthma care is a critical consideration. This involves assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans by local PCPs and specialists. Are there programs available to assist patients with the cost of medications and other asthma-related expenses? The cost of healthcare can be a significant barrier to accessing care, particularly for individuals with low incomes.

Finally, environmental factors play a crucial role in asthma management. Nebo's location in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains may expose residents to specific environmental triggers, such as pollen, mold, and air pollution. Understanding the local environmental conditions and their impact on asthma is essential for developing effective prevention and management strategies. This includes access to local air quality data and information about seasonal allergens.

The "Asthma Score" for Nebo (28761) will be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. It will reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and affordability of asthma care within the community. A high score would indicate a robust system with ample access to qualified PCPs, readily available telemedicine options, integrated mental health resources, and supportive community programs. A low score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as a shortage of PCPs, limited telemedicine access, and a lack of mental health support.

The analysis will also highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This information can be used to identify areas where resources need to be allocated to improve asthma care outcomes. For example, if there is a shortage of PCPs, efforts can be made to recruit more physicians to the area. If telemedicine adoption is low, initiatives can be implemented to encourage its use.

The ultimate goal is to create a healthier community for individuals living with asthma. By providing a comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare landscape, we can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and support healthcare providers in delivering the best possible treatment. This detailed analysis will provide a clear picture of the state of asthma care in Nebo, NC, and identify opportunities for improvement.

To gain a deeper, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Nebo, NC, including physician locations, access to care, and environmental factors, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and identify specific areas where asthma care resources are most needed. Visit CartoChrome today to unlock the power of location intelligence and gain a more comprehensive understanding of asthma care in your community.