35739, Ardmore, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35739, Ardmore, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.84 percent of the residents in 35739 has some form of health insurance. 30.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.74 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 35739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 996 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 818 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,534 health care providers accessible to residents in 35739, Ardmore, Alabama.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacts the health and well-being of individuals, particularly children and the elderly. Access to quality healthcare, including readily available primary care physicians, is paramount in managing asthma effectively. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians and asthma-related resources within ZIP code 35739, encompassing Ardmore, Alabama, and assesses their capacity to serve the community’s needs.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments and more personalized care. In Ardmore, the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires a comprehensive data analysis, including the number of practicing primary care physicians, the total population of ZIP code 35739, and the specialties of the physicians. Publicly available data from the US Census Bureau and the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners can provide some of this information. However, a complete and accurate assessment necessitates combining these data with information from insurance providers and local healthcare networks. The absence of readily available, up-to-date data on this ratio can be a significant obstacle to understanding the true healthcare landscape.

Several factors influence the quality of primary care in Ardmore. The presence of well-established medical practices with experienced physicians and a commitment to patient-centered care is crucial. Practices that prioritize preventative care, asthma education, and comprehensive management strategies are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as pulmonary function tests, can streamline the diagnostic process and facilitate timely treatment. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and communication between physicians and patients.

Standout practices often distinguish themselves through their patient-centric approach, advanced technology adoption, and commitment to community outreach. These practices may have a dedicated asthma educator, provide personalized asthma action plans, and offer convenient appointment scheduling. They also might actively participate in community health initiatives, raising awareness about asthma triggers and promoting healthy lifestyles. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of patient reviews, physician credentials, and the range of services offered.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Ardmore. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments. For asthma management, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. The adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care physicians in Ardmore is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility and responsiveness to patient needs. Factors that can influence telemedicine adoption include the availability of reliable internet access, physician training, and patient acceptance.

The connection between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Conversely, mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and make it more difficult to manage the condition. Therefore, access to mental health resources is essential for comprehensive asthma care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, within the Ardmore community is a crucial factor. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices, through on-site therapists or referral networks, can improve patient outcomes.

Addressing asthma in Ardmore necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This includes enhancing primary care access, promoting asthma education, and integrating mental health services. Public health initiatives can play a vital role in educating the community about asthma triggers, prevention strategies, and the importance of seeking timely medical care. Collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and local government agencies is essential for creating a supportive environment for individuals with asthma.

The availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists, is another crucial factor. Pulmonologists are physicians specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of lung diseases, including asthma. While primary care physicians can manage many asthma cases, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma may require the expertise of a pulmonologist. The proximity of pulmonologists to Ardmore and the ease with which patients can access their services can significantly impact asthma management.

The quality of asthma care is also affected by the availability of affordable medications and access to insurance coverage. The cost of asthma medications can be a barrier to treatment for some patients. Ensuring access to affordable medications, through patient assistance programs or other financial support, is a critical component of effective asthma management. Insurance coverage, including coverage for asthma medications, doctor visits, and diagnostic tests, is also essential.

The quality of care can be assessed by the availability of resources. This includes diagnostic tools, such as pulmonary function tests, and educational materials. The presence of a dedicated asthma educator in a primary care practice can improve patient outcomes by providing personalized education and support. Access to patient support groups and educational workshops can also empower patients to manage their asthma effectively.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Ardmore is a complex undertaking, requiring a comprehensive assessment of various factors. A complete analysis must consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the access to affordable medications and insurance coverage. This is a dynamic landscape, and regular updates are necessary to ensure that the community has the information it needs to make informed decisions about its healthcare.

For a comprehensive, visual understanding of physician locations, healthcare resource distribution, and population demographics within ZIP code 35739, explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive and insightful way to visualize this data, providing a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Ardmore. Leverage the power of data visualization to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.