35091, Kimberly, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35091, Kimberly, Alabama is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.78 percent of the residents in 35091 has some form of health insurance. 19.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.44 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 35091 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 922 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35091. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 353 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,552 health care providers accessible to residents in 35091, Kimberly, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 35091 and Kimberly, Alabama

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality for individuals managing asthma within ZIP code 35091, which encompasses the town of Kimberly, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Asthma Score" perspective.

The cornerstone of asthma management is consistent primary care. In Kimberly, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of asthma sufferers to receive timely diagnoses, develop personalized treatment plans, and manage exacerbations effectively. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer asthma control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes. Gathering data on the number of PCPs practicing within ZIP code 35091, alongside the total population, provides the foundation for this ratio calculation. Publicly available data from sources like the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be utilized.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Kimberly requires examining factors like patient satisfaction scores, reported asthma control rates, and the availability of specialized asthma education programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, offering comprehensive asthma action plans and regular follow-up appointments, are likely to achieve better outcomes. This includes evaluating the practice’s commitment to evidence-based asthma management guidelines, such as those published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within Kimberly's primary care practices warrants investigation. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management reviews, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially offer greater flexibility and convenience for patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of platforms used and the frequency of their utilization, will contribute to the overall "Asthma Score."

The intricate relationship between asthma and mental health demands attention. Asthma can significantly impact a person's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The availability of mental health resources within Kimberly is therefore a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who are knowledgeable about the psychological aspects of chronic respiratory conditions. Identifying practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their asthma management programs is crucial. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals can lead to improved patient outcomes and enhanced overall well-being.

The "Asthma Score" for Kimberly, Alabama, will be a composite metric reflecting the factors discussed above. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance in asthma management. A higher score would indicate greater accessibility, quality of care, and support for individuals with asthma. Conversely, a lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

Data collection will involve a combination of methods. Publicly available data sources will provide information on physician counts and population demographics. Patient surveys and interviews can be used to gather insights on patient satisfaction, access to care, and the availability of specialized services. Practice audits can be conducted to assess the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of asthma education programs, and the integration of mental health services.

The analysis will identify areas of strength and weakness in asthma care within ZIP code 35091. The findings will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing actionable recommendations for improving healthcare access and quality. This could include suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs in the area, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding mental health services.

The final "Asthma Score" will serve as a benchmark for future progress. Regular monitoring and evaluation will be essential to track improvements in asthma care and ensure that individuals with asthma in Kimberly, Alabama, receive the best possible support. This ongoing assessment will help to create a healthier community for everyone.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kimberly, Alabama, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis.