35647, Lester, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35647, Lester, Alabama is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.25 percent of the residents in 35647 has some form of health insurance. 32.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.03 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 35647 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 378 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35647. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 154 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 721 health care providers accessible to residents in 35647, Lester, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 35647 and Lester Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 35647 and the primary care landscape in Lester, Alabama, aiming to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, although a numerical score will not be provided. Instead, the analysis will evaluate key factors influencing asthma care within the defined geographic area.

The foundation of effective asthma care relies on accessible and competent primary care physicians. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP Code 35647 is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians relative to the population, can create significant barriers to care. Longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and difficulty establishing a strong patient-physician relationship are potential consequences. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Alabama Department of Public Health would provide the most accurate physician-to-population data. However, even without precise numbers, anecdotal evidence from local residents and community health reports can paint a picture of accessibility challenges.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 35647 requires evaluating several criteria. Does the practice have a dedicated asthma management program? Do they employ certified asthma educators? Do they offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing? Are they actively involved in patient education regarding asthma triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique? Practices demonstrating a commitment to these areas are likely to provide superior asthma care. Researching online reviews, speaking with local community health organizations, and consulting with patient advocacy groups can help identify practices that excel in asthma management.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Lester. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing exposure to potential asthma triggers. This is especially beneficial for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and asthma education. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within ZIP Code 35647 and the willingness of local primary care physicians to embrace this technology is essential. Does the local hospital or clinic offer telemedicine consultations? Do physicians advertise their telemedicine capabilities? Investigating these questions will reveal the level of telemedicine integration and its potential impact on asthma care.

Mental health considerations are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they play a crucial role in patient well-being and adherence to treatment plans. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts quality of life, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within ZIP Code 35647 is therefore critical. Are there mental health professionals in the area? Do primary care practices offer integrated mental health services? Are there partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health providers? Addressing these questions will reveal the extent to which mental health support is available to asthma patients.

Primary care availability in Lester, specifically, is a critical component of this analysis. Lester, being a smaller community, may face unique challenges in terms of healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians, the hours of operation of local clinics, and the ability to schedule timely appointments are all crucial factors. The presence of a community health center or a federally qualified health center (FQHC) can significantly improve access to care for underserved populations. Examining the services offered by any existing primary care facilities in Lester, including their capacity to manage asthma, is essential. This requires direct investigation of the local healthcare infrastructure, including contacting clinics and hospitals, and potentially surveying residents.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the socioeconomic factors that influence asthma management. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and substandard housing conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder effective treatment. Understanding the socioeconomic profile of the population within ZIP Code 35647 is crucial. Are there programs in place to address social determinants of health, such as housing assistance or food security initiatives? Are there community outreach programs that provide asthma education and support to vulnerable populations? Addressing these questions will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by asthma patients in the area.

The analysis should also consider the role of local pharmacies in asthma management. Do pharmacies within ZIP Code 35647 provide asthma medication counseling? Do they offer convenient refill options and delivery services? Are they knowledgeable about asthma medications and potential side effects? The relationship between primary care physicians and local pharmacies can significantly impact patient adherence to medication regimens.

Finally, the analysis needs to consider the impact of environmental factors on asthma. Air quality, exposure to allergens, and the presence of mold or other irritants in homes can trigger asthma attacks. Are there local initiatives to improve air quality? Are there resources available to help residents identify and mitigate environmental triggers in their homes? Understanding the environmental context is essential for providing comprehensive asthma care.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care in ZIP Code 35647 and Lester requires a comprehensive assessment of multiple factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the socioeconomic profile of the population, the role of local pharmacies, and the impact of environmental factors. While this analysis does not provide a single numerical "Asthma Score," it provides a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care within the area. By examining these factors, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members can work together to improve asthma outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with this chronic condition.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 35647 and Lester, including the location of healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential areas for improvement.