28804, Asheville, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28804, Asheville, North Carolina is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.72 percent of the residents in 28804 has some form of health insurance. 34.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.58 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 28804 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,341 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28804. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,756 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,857 health care providers accessible to residents in 28804, Asheville, North Carolina.

The analysis below aims to provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) in the 28804 ZIP code, focusing on asthma management and related factors, and assesses primary care availability in Asheville, North Carolina. The score is based on available data and general medical principles, but it is not a definitive ranking.

**Asthma Score Analysis: 28804 Physicians**

The 28804 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Asheville, presents a unique environment for healthcare delivery. The presence of the Blue Ridge Mountains and associated seasonal changes can impact respiratory health, making effective asthma management crucial. Assessing the quality of asthma care necessitates a multi-faceted approach, examining physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromise the continuity of care, which is vital for asthma management. Publicly available data, such as that from the North Carolina Medical Board or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, provides information on physician counts within the 28804 area. Comparing this data to the estimated population of the ZIP code allows for a preliminary assessment of physician availability. A lower ratio, ideally, indicates better access to care.

The characteristics of individual practices are also critical. Practices that offer comprehensive asthma care often have dedicated respiratory therapists or asthma educators on staff. These professionals can provide patient education on proper inhaler technique, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans. Furthermore, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) are better equipped to track patient progress, medication adherence, and exacerbation frequency. EHR systems can also facilitate the automated generation of patient reminders for follow-up appointments and medication refills, optimizing care.

Standout practices within the 28804 area may demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through specific programs or initiatives. Some practices may participate in quality improvement projects focused on asthma care, such as those supported by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Others may offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve accessibility for patients. Identifying these practices requires a review of practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially direct inquiries to healthcare providers.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telehealth consultations allow patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, particularly beneficial during periods of poor air quality or respiratory illness outbreaks. Telemedicine also provides opportunities for remote monitoring of lung function using devices that can transmit data to the physician. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within the 28804 physician community involves examining practice websites, patient testimonials, and information from insurance providers about telehealth coverage.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and conversely, the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial aspect of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health specialists, are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves reviewing practice websites, patient reviews, and information from insurance providers about mental health coverage.

**Primary Care Availability in Asheville**

Expanding beyond the 28804 ZIP code, the overall availability of primary care in Asheville is a critical factor influencing asthma management. Asheville, as a regional hub, serves a broader population, and access to primary care physicians is a key determinant of the overall health of the community.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices within Asheville is important. Areas with a higher concentration of practices offer greater accessibility for patients. Public health data and resources, such as those from the Buncombe County Health and Human Services, provide information on the distribution of healthcare providers.

The insurance coverage accepted by primary care practices is another critical consideration. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, ensure that a larger segment of the population has access to care. Information on insurance acceptance is typically available on practice websites and through insurance provider directories.

The patient experience plays a vital role in assessing primary care availability. Factors such as appointment wait times, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the responsiveness of the practice staff contribute to patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans. Online reviews, patient surveys, and anecdotal information provide insights into the patient experience within Asheville's primary care practices.

**Conclusion**

This 'Asthma Score' analysis, while not a definitive ranking, provides a framework for evaluating the quality of asthma care within the 28804 ZIP code and assessing the overall availability of primary care in Asheville. The analysis highlights the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of primary care practices, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data points, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of healthcare accessibility in Asheville, allowing for data-driven decision-making and improved patient outcomes.