28762, Old Fort, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28762, Old Fort, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.91 percent of the residents in 28762 has some form of health insurance. 45.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.82 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 28762 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28762. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,712 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,664 health care providers accessible to residents in 28762, Old Fort, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Old Fort, NC (ZIP Code 28762)

Old Fort, North Carolina, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly regarding asthma management. This analysis delves into the asthma score for doctors within ZIP code 28762, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment.

The assessment of an "Asthma Score" in this context isn't a standardized metric but rather a qualitative evaluation based on the availability and quality of asthma-related care. This includes access to primary care physicians (PCPs) who are often the first point of contact for asthma management, the presence of specialists, and the adoption of innovative care models. The rural nature of Old Fort significantly influences this score, as access to specialized care can be limited compared to urban areas.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective asthma management. In Old Fort, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for asthma. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive management. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 28762 and comparing it to state and national averages is crucial for evaluating the overall accessibility of primary care. This data can be gleaned from state medical boards, local healthcare organizations, and publicly available health statistics.

Standout practices within the ZIP code would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. This includes practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer spirometry testing (a lung function test), and utilize asthma action plans tailored to individual patients. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient communication and provide readily available resources, such as educational materials and support groups, would receive a higher score. Identifying these practices requires a review of online reviews, patient testimonials, and direct contact with local healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists who might not be physically located in Old Fort. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and online educational resources would contribute positively to the asthma score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a crucial factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine initiatives. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption requires researching the services offered by local practices and evaluating the technological infrastructure available to patients.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and conversely, managing asthma can be stressful, leading to mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system significantly impacts the asthma score. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care, offer referrals to mental health professionals, or provide on-site counseling services would be considered highly beneficial. Investigating the availability of mental health services requires examining the services offered by local healthcare providers, mental health clinics, and community organizations.

The overall asthma score for doctors in 28762 will be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate excellent access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, practices dedicated to comprehensive asthma management, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would reflect limited access to care, a high physician-to-patient ratio, a lack of specialized asthma care, limited telemedicine options, and a scarcity of mental health resources.

Evaluating the asthma score necessitates a multifaceted approach. Gathering data from various sources, including local healthcare providers, public health agencies, and patient feedback, is essential. Analyzing this information and comparing it to regional and national benchmarks provides a valuable context for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The specific practices within 28762 should be assessed individually. Identify those practices that actively embrace the principles of comprehensive asthma care. Look for those that employ asthma educators, offer patient education materials, and collaborate with specialists. Furthermore, evaluate their commitment to patient communication, their use of electronic health records, and their integration of telemedicine technologies.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is a crucial factor. While Old Fort might not have these specialists directly, assess the referral pathways to specialists in nearby towns and cities. The ease of access to these specialists significantly impacts the overall asthma score.

The role of community resources should also be considered. Are there local support groups for asthma patients? Are there community health programs that provide asthma education and resources? The availability of these resources can supplement the care provided by physicians and contribute to improved patient outcomes.

The effectiveness of asthma management is directly linked to patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide clear instructions, and offer ongoing support are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Assessing the methods used by local practices to promote patient adherence is an important part of the evaluation.

The final asthma score for doctors in 28762 should reflect a holistic view of the local healthcare environment. It should consider access to care, the quality of care provided, the availability of resources, and the integration of innovative care models. This assessment is not a static measure but rather a dynamic evaluation that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Old Fort, including the location of practices, specialists, and community resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and assist in identifying areas for improvement.