28791, Hendersonville, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28791, Hendersonville, North Carolina is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.82 percent of the residents in 28791 has some form of health insurance. 37.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.12 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 28791 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28791. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,882 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,608 health care providers accessible to residents in 28791, Hendersonville, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Hendersonville, NC (ZIP Code 28791)**

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Hendersonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28791) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the resources dedicated to asthma management, the integration of technology, and the support offered for the often-overlooked aspect of mental health. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, though a precise numerical score is challenging without proprietary data. Instead, we will offer a qualitative ranking, focusing on strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of good asthma care lies in accessible primary care. In Hendersonville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in Western North Carolina suggests a potential challenge. Rural areas often face shortages, and Hendersonville, though not entirely rural, may experience similar difficulties. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment adjustments for asthma patients. The availability of after-hours or weekend care is also a key consideration, especially for patients experiencing acute asthma exacerbations.

Several primary care practices in Hendersonville stand out in their approach to asthma management. Practices that prioritize patient education are particularly valuable. This includes providing detailed information on asthma triggers, proper inhaler technique, and the development of personalized asthma action plans. These plans are critical for empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing (spirometry) on-site are better equipped to monitor lung function and tailor treatment strategies.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve asthma care, especially in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption rate of telemedicine in Hendersonville's primary care practices is a key indicator. Practices that offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and even initial asthma assessments can improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, particularly for those with severe asthma. The integration of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, represents a further advancement in telemedicine's capabilities.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and provide referrals to therapists or psychiatrists demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for addressing the psychological impact of asthma and improving overall patient well-being.

Another area of assessment involves the availability of asthma specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact, specialists are crucial for managing complex cases, performing advanced diagnostic tests, and providing specialized treatments like immunotherapy. The proximity of specialists to Hendersonville and the ease with which patients can access their services are important factors in the overall Asthma Score.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important aspect. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can improve care coordination, track patient progress, and facilitate communication between healthcare providers. This can lead to more efficient and effective asthma management. The ability to easily share patient information with specialists and other healthcare professionals is a significant advantage.

Public health initiatives and community resources also play a role. The presence of local asthma support groups, educational programs, and community outreach efforts can significantly improve asthma awareness and patient self-management skills. Collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations can create a supportive environment for individuals with asthma.

Based on the factors discussed, the "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 28791 and primary care availability in Hendersonville can be tentatively assessed. While not a precise numerical score, the overall picture suggests a landscape with both strengths and areas for improvement. The presence of dedicated practices, the potential for telemedicine adoption, and the availability of some specialist resources are positive indicators. However, the physician-to-patient ratio, the need for increased mental health integration, and the importance of ongoing community education highlight areas where improvements could significantly enhance asthma care.

To further improve the accuracy and depth of this analysis, access to detailed data on individual practice performance, patient outcomes, and resource utilization would be beneficial. This data, combined with insights from patient surveys and community feedback, would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape in Hendersonville.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Hendersonville, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and pharmacies, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize the healthcare landscape, identify areas with limited access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.