35228, Birmingham, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35228, Birmingham, Alabama is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.06 percent of the residents in 35228 has some form of health insurance. 40.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.79 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 35228 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,330 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 115 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35228. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,342 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 29,514 health care providers accessible to residents in 35228, Birmingham, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Birmingham, Alabama (ZIP Code 35228)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of asthma care within Birmingham, Alabama, specifically focusing on ZIP code 35228, and considers the broader context of primary care availability across the city. The goal is to provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment, considering factors like physician access, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial for managing a chronic respiratory condition.

ZIP code 35228 encompasses a significant portion of Birmingham, and understanding the healthcare resources within its boundaries is critical. The 'Asthma Score' isn't a single number but a composite picture, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem. This assessment will examine the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), as PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for asthma diagnosis and management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment. Publicly available data, such as that from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, can offer insights into the number of PCPs and specialists (pulmonologists and allergists) practicing within 35228. Furthermore, examining data on patient demographics within the zip code can reveal if there are any disparities in access to care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are they accredited by reputable organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA)? Do they employ evidence-based asthma management protocols, such as those outlined by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Researching individual practices can reveal their commitment to patient education, medication adherence programs, and regular asthma action plan reviews.

Identifying standout practices requires going beyond basic metrics. Some practices may excel in patient communication, offering clear and understandable explanations of asthma management. Others might have dedicated asthma educators or nurses who provide personalized support. Investigating patient reviews, both online and through local community feedback, can highlight practices known for their patient-centered approach.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including increased access to care, reduced travel time, and the ability to monitor patients remotely. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within 35228 involves investigating which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and online patient portals for communication and prescription refills.

Mental health is intrinsically linked to asthma management. The chronic nature of asthma can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the healthcare ecosystem is crucial. This analysis will investigate whether practices in 35228 offer on-site mental health services, have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, or integrate mental health screening into routine asthma care.

Primary care availability across Birmingham, outside of 35228, also impacts the overall asthma care landscape. Patients may seek care outside their immediate zip code, especially if access is limited locally. Assessing the availability of PCPs and specialists throughout Birmingham provides a broader understanding of the healthcare options available to residents of 35228. This includes examining the distribution of healthcare facilities, public transportation accessibility, and the availability of language services.

The 'Asthma Score' for 35228 will be a nuanced evaluation. It's not just about counting doctors; it's about assessing the quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of the care available. This requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice accreditation, patient reviews, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services.

The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on asthma management. Asthma disproportionately affects certain populations, and factors like poverty, housing quality, and environmental exposures can significantly influence asthma control. Investigating the presence of community health programs and resources that address these social determinants of health is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care within 35228 and the broader Birmingham area. This assessment can inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about areas needing improvement. For instance, if telemedicine adoption is low, it might suggest a need for increased investment in telehealth infrastructure or training. If mental health resources are lacking, it could highlight the need for partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers.

The final 'Asthma Score' will be a qualitative assessment, drawing on data and research to provide a clear and actionable overview. It will identify areas of excellence, areas for improvement, and recommendations for enhancing asthma care within the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Birmingham and visualize the distribution of resources, access to care, and potential disparities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data analyzed, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in 35228 and beyond.