28805, Asheville, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28805, Asheville, North Carolina is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.36 percent of the residents in 28805 has some form of health insurance. 38.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.11 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 28805 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,519 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28805. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,719 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,777 health care providers accessible to residents in 28805, Asheville, North Carolina.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Asheville, NC (ZIP Code 28805)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Asheville's 28805 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. We must assess the availability and quality of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all through the lens of asthma management. The goal is to construct an "Asthma Score" reflecting the accessibility and efficacy of care for individuals suffering from this chronic respiratory condition.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on robust primary care. In 28805, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. While a precise physician-to-patient ratio is difficult to ascertain without proprietary data, publicly available information and local healthcare directories offer clues. We can assess the number of primary care practices within the ZIP code, considering the size of each practice (number of physicians) and the estimated patient panel size. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally translates to better access and more personalized care, positively impacting the Asthma Score. Conversely, a lower ratio might signal longer wait times for appointments and potentially less time dedicated to each patient, negatively affecting the score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This involves evaluating factors like the experience and expertise of the physicians, their commitment to evidence-based asthma management guidelines, and the availability of specialized asthma care services. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and have certified asthma educators on staff would receive higher marks. Furthermore, the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for better coordination of care, medication management, and tracking of patient outcomes, all contributing to a higher Asthma Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to offer virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms significantly enhances accessibility, especially for patients with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those facing transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and integrated them seamlessly into their asthma care workflows would score favorably. This includes the use of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, coupled with virtual consultations to proactively manage asthma exacerbations and reduce hospitalizations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they play a significant role. Asthma can be a source of anxiety, stress, and depression, which can, in turn, exacerbate asthma symptoms. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is therefore essential. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, or access to mental health resources through their EHR systems would contribute positively to the Asthma Score. A holistic approach to asthma care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition, is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within 28805 requires further investigation. This involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online reviews, and assessing the practices' commitment to asthma-specific quality metrics. Practices that consistently achieve high patient satisfaction scores, demonstrate improved asthma control rates, and actively participate in community outreach programs would be recognized as leaders in asthma care. These practices serve as models for other providers and contribute significantly to a higher overall Asthma Score for the ZIP code.

The Asthma Score is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in the healthcare landscape. Factors like the availability of new medications, advancements in asthma management techniques, and shifts in healthcare policy can all influence the score. Regular updates and re-evaluations are therefore necessary to ensure the score accurately reflects the current state of asthma care within 28805.

The analysis should also account for the socioeconomic factors influencing asthma outcomes. Areas with higher rates of poverty, housing instability, and environmental hazards often experience disproportionately higher rates of asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations. Addressing these social determinants of health through community partnerships, patient education programs, and advocacy efforts is critical to improving the Asthma Score and ensuring equitable access to quality asthma care for all residents of 28805.

In conclusion, assessing the Asthma Score for 28805 involves a detailed evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the identification of standout practices. This comprehensive analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care within the ZIP code and identifying areas for improvement. A high Asthma Score indicates a healthcare environment that prioritizes accessibility, quality, and patient-centered care, leading to better outcomes for individuals living with asthma.

To visualize and analyze the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care practices, specialists, and pharmacies within 28805 and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for mapping and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care, visualize physician-to-patient ratios, and understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population.