35593, Vina, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35593, Vina, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.05 percent of the residents in 35593 has some form of health insurance. 30.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.20 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 35593 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 350 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35593. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 298 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 185 health care providers accessible to residents in 35593, Vina, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35593 and Primary Care in Vina

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 35593, which encompasses the town of Vina, Alabama, and aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment. This score, though not a formal, standardized metric, will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care services, particularly concerning asthma management, within the context of Vina's specific needs.

The core of this assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This is a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, meaning a small number of physicians serving a large population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient, and potential difficulties in managing chronic conditions like asthma. In Vina, a rural area, this ratio is likely a significant factor. Data from the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) would be necessary to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 35593. This data would need to be cross-referenced with population estimates to create an accurate picture.

Beyond raw numbers, the type of primary care providers available is crucial. Are there enough family medicine physicians, pediatricians, and internal medicine specialists? Asthma management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, especially for severe cases. The presence of pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists in the area or within a reasonable commuting distance is a key consideration. The "Asthma Score" would be adjusted based on the availability of these specialists.

Identifying standout practices is also essential. Certain primary care clinics may demonstrate superior asthma management strategies. This could include proactive asthma action plans, regular patient education on inhaler techniques, and robust follow-up systems. Reviewing publicly available data, such as patient satisfaction surveys (if available), and information on practice accreditations (e.g., NCQA recognition for patient-centered medical homes) would help to identify these practices. Examining patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can also provide insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be a major barrier to care for individuals with asthma, especially during exacerbations. The "Asthma Score" would be positively influenced by the availability of telemedicine options for primary care and specialist consultations. This includes the ability to remotely monitor patients’ asthma symptoms and provide timely interventions.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic disease management, but they are critical. Asthma, like other chronic illnesses, can significantly impact mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can worsen asthma symptoms and reduce adherence to treatment plans. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community or readily accessible through referral networks is a crucial factor. The "Asthma Score" would be adjusted based on the availability of mental health services and the integration of mental health screening and support into primary care practices.

Another factor to consider is the availability of asthma education programs. These programs, often led by nurses or respiratory therapists, teach patients about their condition, how to manage their symptoms, and how to use their medications correctly. The existence of such programs, and their accessibility to residents of Vina, would positively impact the "Asthma Score."

Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care is important. Asthma attacks can occur at any time, and access to prompt medical attention is critical. The "Asthma Score" would reflect the availability of urgent care clinics, emergency rooms, or on-call physicians within a reasonable distance.

The socioeconomic factors of Vina also play a role. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all exacerbate asthma outcomes. The "Asthma Score" would consider the availability of financial assistance programs, Medicaid enrollment rates, and the accessibility of public transportation. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for improving asthma management.

The "Asthma Score" would be a composite measure, weighted based on the relative importance of each factor. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, and the adoption of telemedicine would likely carry the most weight. Other factors, such as mental health resources, asthma education programs, and socioeconomic considerations, would also contribute to the overall score.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape in Vina (ZIP code 35593) requires a comprehensive approach that considers not only the number of physicians but also the quality of care, the availability of specialists, the integration of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health support. By evaluating these factors, a more accurate and useful "Asthma Score" can be developed. This score, coupled with actionable insights, can help to identify areas for improvement and ultimately improve the health outcomes of individuals with asthma in Vina.

For a visual representation of healthcare access in Vina and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis.

**To gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and visualize the data points discussed in this analysis, we invite you to explore the potential of CartoChrome maps. Contact us today to learn more about how CartoChrome maps can transform your healthcare data into actionable insights.**