35049, Cleveland, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35049, Cleveland, Alabama is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.44 percent of the residents in 35049 has some form of health insurance. 34.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.84 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 35049 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 946 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35049. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 573 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 423 health care providers accessible to residents in 35049, Cleveland, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Cleveland, Alabama (ZIP Code 35049)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, in Cleveland, Alabama (ZIP Code 35049) requires a multi-faceted approach. We will examine physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, ultimately constructing an “Asthma Score” reflecting the overall support system for asthma patients in this community. This analysis will then provide a foundation for understanding the specific challenges and opportunities for improving asthma care within this region.

The core of our analysis begins with physician availability. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. The ideal ratio, of course, varies depending on the specific medical specialty and the demographics of the population. However, a low physician-to-patient ratio, especially for primary care physicians (PCPs), can indicate potential access issues. In Cleveland, we must assess the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, considering the population size. Furthermore, we must identify the presence of pulmonologists or allergists specializing in asthma management, as their availability directly impacts the quality of specialized care accessible to asthma sufferers. Data regarding the availability of pediatricians, given the prevalence of asthma in children, is also paramount.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are PCPs and specialists concentrated in specific areas of the ZIP code, potentially creating healthcare deserts for residents in other locations? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or community clinics that may provide care to underserved populations? The presence of these clinics often indicates a commitment to healthcare access for all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Investigating the insurance plans accepted by local practices is also essential. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, tend to be more accessible to a broader population.

Examining the characteristics of local practices offers further insights. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is a critical factor. EHRs facilitate efficient information sharing between healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices with robust EHR systems often demonstrate a commitment to modern healthcare practices. Another key indicator is the availability of on-site diagnostic testing, such as pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and allergy testing. On-site testing minimizes the need for patients to travel to other facilities, streamlining the diagnostic and management process.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. The ability to conduct virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. We must assess the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including the types of services offered (e.g., medication refills, follow-up appointments, or initial consultations). The availability of telehealth can also reduce the burden on emergency rooms and urgent care facilities.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the community is a key factor in our Asthma Score. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, and their integration with primary care practices. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the same practice as primary care, are particularly beneficial.

To construct the Asthma Score, we would assign weighted values to each of these factors. For example, physician-to-patient ratios would receive a significant weight, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to care. The adoption of EHRs and telemedicine would also be weighted heavily, as these technologies can significantly improve care coordination and patient convenience. The availability of mental health resources would also be assigned a substantial weight, recognizing the critical link between mental and physical health. The final Asthma Score would be a composite number, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care in Cleveland, Alabama.

In the absence of precise data, we can make some educated assumptions. Cleveland, Alabama, is a rural community. This suggests that physician availability may be a challenge. The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, may be limited, forcing patients to travel to larger cities for specialized care. Telemedicine adoption may be lower than in more urban areas, but this is rapidly changing. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices may also be limited, potentially creating a gap in care for asthma patients.

Without specific data, identifying “standout practices” is impossible. However, we can identify some of the characteristics that would make a practice stand out. A practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, a commitment to EHRs, on-site diagnostic testing, and telemedicine services would likely be considered a leader in asthma care. A practice that integrates mental health services and accepts a wide range of insurance plans would also be highly regarded.

To improve asthma care in Cleveland, Alabama, several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting additional physicians, particularly specialists, is essential. Promoting the adoption of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care. Increasing the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also crucial. Finally, community outreach programs can help educate residents about asthma management and connect them with available resources.

The analysis highlights the importance of data-driven decision-making in healthcare. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities in a community like Cleveland, Alabama, requires a comprehensive assessment of available resources and healthcare practices. This information is crucial for developing effective strategies to improve asthma care and ultimately improve the health and well-being of the community.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Cleveland, Alabama, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider using CartoChrome maps.