28777, Spruce Pine, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28777, Spruce Pine, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.96 percent of the residents in 28777 has some form of health insurance. 32.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.79 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 28777 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,614 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28777. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,794 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,592 health care providers accessible to residents in 28777, Spruce Pine, North Carolina.

Analyzing asthma care in Spruce Pine, North Carolina (ZIP code 28777) requires a multifaceted approach. We'll delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess their capacity to manage asthma, and explore the supporting resources available to patients. This analysis will provide a granular understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. A low ratio indicates a potential strain on healthcare resources, potentially leading to longer wait times and decreased access to care. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), can be used to approximate this ratio. The actual number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 28777 ZIP code needs to be cross-referenced with the population data for Spruce Pine. This data will provide a baseline for understanding the potential accessibility of care.

Beyond raw numbers, the specialization of these PCPs is important. Are they board-certified in internal medicine, family medicine, or pediatrics? Do any PCPs have a specific interest or training in pulmonology or allergy management? These specializations are crucial for effective asthma care. A PCP with a strong understanding of asthma can provide better initial diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management, potentially preventing exacerbations and hospitalizations.

Examining the practices themselves offers further insights. Are the practices accepting new patients? What are their appointment scheduling processes like? Do they offer same-day appointments for acute asthma episodes? These factors directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely care. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) can streamline communication and improve care coordination. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between providers, allowing for a more holistic and coordinated approach to asthma management.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Spruce Pine. Telemedicine can facilitate medication refills, follow-up appointments, and education about asthma management. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma care, but they are vital. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practices or through referrals to external providers, is crucial. Integration of mental health services into asthma care can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Identifying standout practices within the 28777 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This includes reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online ratings, and assessing the practice's approach to asthma management. Does the practice offer asthma education programs? Do they have a dedicated asthma nurse or respiratory therapist? Do they actively participate in quality improvement initiatives related to asthma care? Practices that prioritize patient education and proactive management often achieve better outcomes.

The availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is also important. While PCPs can manage most asthma cases, patients with severe or complex asthma may require specialist consultation. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral processes are essential considerations. Access to specialists ensures patients receive the most appropriate level of care.

Medication accessibility is another factor. Is there a pharmacy conveniently located near the primary care practices? Are commonly prescribed asthma medications readily available and affordable? Medication adherence is crucial for asthma control, and any barriers to medication access can negatively impact patient outcomes.

The local hospital’s role in asthma care is also important. Does the hospital have a dedicated emergency room protocol for asthma exacerbations? Are there respiratory therapists available 24/7? A well-equipped hospital provides a safety net for patients experiencing severe asthma attacks.

Analyzing the insurance landscape is also essential. Does the practice accept a wide range of insurance plans? Are there any financial assistance programs available for patients who struggle to afford their medications or healthcare services? Financial barriers can significantly impact access to care.

The overall asthma score for doctors in ZIP code 28777 is therefore a complex calculation. It is not simply a matter of counting doctors. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, specialization, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, standout practices, access to specialists, medication accessibility, and hospital resources. A high score reflects a healthcare system that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive and accessible asthma care.

Ultimately, understanding the nuances of healthcare delivery in a specific geographic area requires detailed data analysis. To visualize and explore this complex information, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to overlay various data points, such as physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource availability, to create a comprehensive and interactive view of the healthcare landscape.