35458, Elrod, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35458, Elrod, Alabama is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 35458 has some form of health insurance. 16.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.45 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 35458 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 228 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35458. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 63 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 691 health care providers accessible to residents in 35458, Elrod, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35458 and Primary Care in Elrod

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 35458 and the primary care landscape of Elrod, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into various factors influencing an “Asthma Score,” encompassing physician-to-patient ratios, practice profiles, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current situation and highlight areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of any asthma score assessment rests on the availability of qualified healthcare professionals. ZIP code 35458, encompassing the community of Elrod, presents a unique challenge. The population density, coupled with the rural nature of the area, likely impacts the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Data from the Alabama Department of Public Health, alongside information from the American Medical Association, would be crucial in determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this specific geographic area. This data point is fundamental to the overall asthma score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of medical practices available significantly influence the quality of asthma care. In Elrod, the presence of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing asthma symptoms, providing diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The availability of PCPs who have experience in asthma management is a critical factor. Furthermore, the presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is essential for patients with more severe or complex asthma cases. The accessibility of these specialists, whether through direct practice or referral networks, directly affects the asthma score.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve asthma care, particularly in rural areas like Elrod. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing access to care. This is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like asthma, who may require frequent monitoring and medication adjustments. Practices that offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online prescription refills, would receive a higher score. The integration of telehealth into asthma management demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

Asthma is not just a physical condition; it can also significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and these mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of a comprehensive asthma score. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, as well as support groups and educational programs. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care model, either directly or through referrals, would receive a more favorable assessment.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the specific characteristics of medical providers in the area. This involves evaluating the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of best practices in asthma management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, utilize asthma action plans, and provide patient education would be considered exemplary. This includes assessing the availability of educational materials, the use of standardized asthma questionnaires, and the overall patient experience. Publicly available data from patient reviews, insurance provider ratings, and professional organizations would be invaluable in identifying these high-performing practices.

Assessing the asthma score also involves evaluating the availability of resources beyond direct medical care. This includes access to pharmacies, respiratory therapists, and community support programs. The proximity of pharmacies that stock asthma medications and provide patient counseling is crucial. The availability of respiratory therapists, who can provide education on inhaler techniques and asthma management, is another important factor. Furthermore, the presence of community-based asthma education programs, support groups, and resources for low-income patients can significantly improve the overall asthma score.

The overall asthma score for doctors in ZIP code 35458 and primary care availability in Elrod would be a composite measure, taking into account all the factors discussed above. A high score would indicate excellent access to qualified healthcare professionals, the integration of telemedicine, comprehensive mental health support, and the presence of exemplary practices. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and a lack of mental health resources. The specific weighting of each factor would depend on the relative importance of each component.

To further enhance this analysis and gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elrod and surrounding areas, leveraging the power of geographic information systems (GIS) is crucial. Tools like CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data. These maps can be used to identify areas with limited access to care, visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, and assess the impact of socioeconomic factors on asthma outcomes.

By utilizing CartoChrome maps, stakeholders can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing asthma care in Elrod. This data-driven approach can inform policy decisions, guide resource allocation, and ultimately improve the health and well-being of individuals with asthma in this community.

Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape and unlock the insights needed to improve asthma care in Elrod and beyond? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps and see how geographic data can transform your understanding of healthcare access and outcomes. Visit [Insert CartoChrome Website Link Here] to learn more.