35136, Rockford, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35136, Rockford, Alabama is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.36 percent of the residents in 35136 has some form of health insurance. 43.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.76 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 35136 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 462 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35136. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 475 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 64 health care providers accessible to residents in 35136, Rockford, Alabama.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, disproportionately affects certain populations. Access to quality healthcare, including primary care, significantly impacts asthma management and patient outcomes. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 35136 (Rockford, Alabama), considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

Rockford, a small town in Coosa County, faces unique healthcare challenges. Rural communities often experience shortages of healthcare professionals, making access to care difficult. Understanding the local landscape is crucial for assessing asthma care availability.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists within ZIP code 35136 is essential. Public health agencies and professional organizations typically collect and report this data. A low ratio would necessitate strategies to improve access, such as recruiting new physicians or expanding telehealth services.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of asthma management. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing asthma symptoms. They provide initial diagnoses, develop treatment plans, and monitor patients’ conditions. The number of PCPs actively practicing within Rockford, their acceptance of new patients, and their specific expertise in asthma care are all important considerations. A practice with a specialized focus on asthma management, for instance, could be considered a standout practice.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the availability of specialized equipment, such as spirometry for lung function testing, the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines, and the provision of patient education materials. Patient reviews and testimonials also offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Practices actively involved in community outreach programs or asthma education initiatives would likely be viewed favorably.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to asthma care, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine services, including video consultations and remote monitoring, is an important factor in assessing asthma care. Practices that offer telemedicine options are likely to be considered more accessible.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but their importance cannot be overstated. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Access to mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, is crucial for supporting patients' overall well-being. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs are better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

The availability of asthma education programs is another important factor. These programs empower patients to manage their condition effectively by providing them with information about triggers, medications, and self-management techniques. Practices that offer asthma education programs are likely to contribute to better patient outcomes.

The effectiveness of asthma care also depends on the availability of specialized resources. The presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and allergy specialists within or near ZIP code 35136 is crucial. These specialists provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options for patients with complex asthma cases.

The analysis of asthma care in Rockford must also consider the socioeconomic factors of the population. Factors such as income levels, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can significantly impact access to care. Addressing these socioeconomic barriers is crucial for ensuring equitable asthma care.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can improve the coordination of care and facilitate the sharing of information between healthcare providers. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better positioned to provide comprehensive and coordinated asthma care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of emergency services. Patients with severe asthma exacerbations may require immediate medical attention. The proximity of emergency rooms and urgent care facilities is an important factor in assessing asthma care.

The overall asthma score for doctors in ZIP code 35136 would be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. It would reflect the availability, accessibility, and quality of asthma care in the area. A high score would indicate that patients have good access to quality care, while a low score would indicate that improvements are needed.

The analysis would ideally include recommendations for improving asthma care in Rockford. These recommendations might include recruiting new physicians, expanding telemedicine services, increasing the availability of mental health resources, and implementing asthma education programs.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care in Rockford requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and socioeconomic factors. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the local landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas with limited access to care, consider exploring the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the local healthcare landscape and help inform strategies for improving asthma care in Rockford and other rural communities.