28905, Marble, North Carolina Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 28905, Marble, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.11 percent of the residents in 28905 has some form of health insurance. 54.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.09 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 28905 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 955 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28905. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 627 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 731 health care providers accessible to residents in 28905, Marble, North Carolina.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28905 and Primary Care Availability in Marble, NC**

The evaluation of healthcare access, particularly for conditions like asthma, necessitates a nuanced understanding of local resources. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall quality of asthma care within ZIP code 28905, which encompasses the town of Murphy, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas, with a specific focus on the town of Marble. The goal is to provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, exemplary practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all critical components of comprehensive asthma management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 28905 presents a significant challenge. Rural areas often experience shortages of healthcare professionals, and this is likely the case in Murphy and Marble. The limited number of PCPs directly impacts access to routine check-ups, preventative care, and timely asthma management. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis or adjustments to treatment plans. This scarcity also affects the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, who are crucial for managing severe asthma cases. The resulting strain on the existing medical infrastructure necessitates innovative solutions to improve accessibility.

Identifying standout practices within the region is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care often implement evidence-based guidelines, provide patient education, and foster strong patient-physician relationships. These practices typically have dedicated staff trained in asthma management, including nurses and respiratory therapists. They may also offer specialized services such as pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and allergy testing, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, exemplary practices often prioritize patient communication, ensuring that patients understand their condition, treatment plans, and the importance of adherence to medication regimens.

Telemedicine adoption presents a promising avenue for improving asthma care access in 28905. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and accommodating busy schedules. Virtual consultations can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education. Telemedicine also enables access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. However, the successful implementation of telemedicine requires adequate internet access, patient comfort with technology, and a willingness from healthcare providers to embrace this modality.

The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is a critical consideration. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This integrated approach addresses the physical and emotional aspects of asthma, leading to improved patient outcomes and overall well-being.

The availability of primary care in Marble, specifically, is an essential aspect of this assessment. Marble, being a smaller community within the broader 28905 ZIP code, may face even greater challenges regarding access to healthcare. The presence of a dedicated primary care clinic or the availability of PCPs who regularly serve Marble residents is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Transportation challenges, particularly for elderly or disabled individuals, may further exacerbate the issue. The ability of Marble residents to access timely and convenient primary care is fundamental to effective asthma management.

The 'Asthma Score' for 28905, therefore, is likely negatively impacted by the physician-to-patient ratio and potential limitations in specialist availability. The presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources would positively influence the score. The specific availability of primary care resources in Marble would be a critical factor in the assessment for residents of that community. A comprehensive score would also need to consider the socioeconomic factors of the population, as poverty and lack of insurance can significantly impact access to care and medication adherence.

To improve asthma care in 28905, several strategies are recommended. Recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals are essential. Incentivizing physicians to practice in rural areas, through loan repayment programs or other benefits, could help alleviate the physician shortage. Expanding telemedicine services, including access to specialists, is crucial. Public awareness campaigns educating patients about asthma management, medication adherence, and available resources are needed. Strengthening collaborations between primary care practices, specialists, and mental health providers is critical for providing comprehensive care.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care in 28905 reveals a complex landscape. While challenges exist regarding physician availability and access to specialized services, opportunities for improvement through telemedicine, integrated mental health resources, and community outreach are apparent. The 'Asthma Score' reflects the interplay of these factors, highlighting the need for a multi-faceted approach to improve healthcare access and outcomes for individuals with asthma in the region.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in 28905, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare services and identifying areas with limited access.