35186, Wilsonville, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35186, Wilsonville, Alabama is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.30 percent of the residents in 35186 has some form of health insurance. 31.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.45 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 35186 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35186. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,032 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,790 health care providers accessible to residents in 35186, Wilsonville, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Wilsonville, Alabama (ZIP Code 35186)

Wilsonville, Alabama, a community nestled in Shelby County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare, particularly concerning asthma management. Evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 35186, alongside the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources, is crucial for developing an 'Asthma Score' analysis. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem's capacity to support individuals managing asthma.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental element of this assessment. The availability of PCPs directly impacts access to regular check-ups, medication management, and asthma education – all critical components of effective asthma control. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, and local Shelby County medical societies, should be consulted to determine the current PCP density per 1,000 residents in Wilsonville. A low ratio could indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This data needs to be cross-referenced with the prevalence of asthma within the community, which can be gleaned from public health data and local clinic records, to understand the true burden on the existing medical infrastructure.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Wilsonville is essential. This involves researching practices that have demonstrated a commitment to asthma management through specialized training, equipment, and patient education programs. Key indicators include the presence of certified asthma educators (CAEs), the utilization of spirometry testing to assess lung function, and the implementation of personalized asthma action plans. Practices actively participating in local asthma initiatives or collaborations with respiratory therapists should be considered favorably. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, provide valuable insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in the 'Asthma Score' calculation. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments or who require frequent monitoring. Evaluating the extent to which PCPs in Wilsonville offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication refills, is crucial. The availability of telehealth options can be particularly beneficial for patients experiencing asthma exacerbations, allowing for timely intervention and potentially reducing the need for emergency room visits. Practices that have integrated telemedicine platforms into their workflows and offer convenient access to virtual appointments deserve higher scores.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a critical component of a comprehensive asthma management strategy. This analysis should assess whether PCPs in Wilsonville screen patients for mental health concerns, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Practices that demonstrate an understanding of the interplay between asthma and mental health, and actively address these needs, should receive higher scores.

Evaluating the accessibility of specialists is another important consideration. While PCPs are the primary point of contact for asthma management, pulmonologists and allergists play a crucial role in diagnosing complex cases, providing advanced treatments, and managing severe asthma. The proximity of specialists to Wilsonville and the ease with which patients can access their services directly affect the quality of care. This includes assessing the wait times for appointments, the availability of specialists who accept the patient's insurance, and the efficiency of the referral process.

The 'Asthma Score' is not a static measure; it should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Factors such as new practice openings, the adoption of new technologies, and changes in insurance coverage can all impact the quality and accessibility of care. The analysis should also consider the demographics of the Wilsonville population, including age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation, as these factors can influence healthcare utilization and outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of community resources that support asthma management. This includes asthma education programs offered by local hospitals, clinics, or community organizations, as well as access to affordable medications and asthma-related supplies. The presence of support groups for individuals with asthma and their families can also contribute to improved patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the 'Asthma Score' for Wilsonville, Alabama, requires a comprehensive evaluation of several factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the accessibility of specialists and community resources all play a crucial role in determining the overall score. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of asthma care in Wilsonville and identifying areas for improvement. This assessment can be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and individuals with asthma, helping them make informed decisions about their care and advocating for better access to resources.

To visualize the spatial relationships of healthcare providers, access to specialists, and community resources within Wilsonville and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where resources are most needed.