35559, Glen Allen, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35559, Glen Allen, Alabama is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 35559 has some form of health insurance. 28.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.00 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 35559 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35559. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 290 health care providers accessible to residents in 35559, Glen Allen, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Glen Allen, Alabama (ZIP Code 35559)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Glen Allen, Alabama (ZIP Code 35559) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to an "Asthma Score" for the area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available to asthma patients in Glen Allen and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of any asthma care assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Glen Allen, a relatively rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a lower density of medical professionals compared to urban centers. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio necessitates data beyond publically available information. We must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, factoring in their patient load and specialization (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine). A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment of asthma. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially improved asthma management.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. Firstly, the presence of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists is crucial. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose and manage complex asthma cases, providing advanced treatment options. Secondly, the adoption of evidence-based asthma guidelines is essential. Practices should adhere to the latest recommendations from organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). This includes implementing standardized protocols for diagnosis, medication management, and patient education. Thirdly, patient satisfaction surveys and reviews offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices with consistently positive feedback, indicating effective communication, compassionate care, and a well-managed environment, deserve recognition.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve asthma care in rural areas. Its adoption in Glen Allen is a critical factor in our "Asthma Score" analysis. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring from the comfort of their homes. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, transportation limitations, or those living in remote areas. Assessing the adoption rate involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices (e.g., peak flow meters with data transmission), and the integration of telemedicine platforms into the practices' workflows. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can exacerbate anxiety and depression, and conversely, these mental health conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is an important component of our "Asthma Score." This includes access to mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, psychiatrists), support groups, and educational programs. Assessing this aspect involves evaluating the number of mental health providers in the area, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, and the presence of community-based mental health support programs. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral processes into their asthma care demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Glen Allen (ZIP Code 35559) is a composite measure. It reflects the interplay of these factors: the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the degree of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a robust and well-integrated system of asthma care, with good access to qualified physicians, evidence-based treatment, convenient telemedicine options, and supportive mental health resources. A low score suggests areas for improvement, such as a need to increase the number of physicians, improve access to specialists, expand telemedicine services, and enhance mental health support.

To further refine this analysis, a deeper dive into specific practice characteristics is necessary. This includes examining the types of asthma medications prescribed, the frequency of patient education sessions, and the availability of asthma action plans. Furthermore, understanding the demographics of the patient population (e.g., age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status) is crucial for tailoring care to meet the specific needs of the community.

The data collection process requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes contacting local medical practices, reviewing online resources (e.g., practice websites, patient reviews), and consulting with healthcare professionals in the area. Public health data from sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide valuable insights into asthma prevalence and related health indicators.

The "Asthma Score" is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new practices open, telemedicine technologies evolve, and mental health resources become available, the score should be adjusted to accurately reflect the current state of asthma care in Glen Allen. This ongoing assessment allows for continuous improvement and ensures that asthma patients have access to the best possible care.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma care landscape in Glen Allen, Alabama, requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall "Asthma Score". The data gathered and analyzed can guide improvements in asthma care and enhance the quality of life for asthma patients in the community.

For a more detailed and visually compelling analysis of healthcare data in Glen Allen, Alabama, and other areas, consider utilizing the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a geospatial visualization of healthcare resources, providing valuable insights into access to care and areas for improvement.