35772, Stevenson, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35772, Stevenson, Alabama is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.99 percent of the residents in 35772 has some form of health insurance. 43.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.82 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 35772 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35772. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 834 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 516 health care providers accessible to residents in 35772, Stevenson, Alabama.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Stevenson, Alabama (ZIP Code 35772)**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality for asthma patients in Stevenson, Alabama, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), assess physician-to-patient ratios, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all crucial factors impacting asthma management. This analysis will culminate in a hypothetical "Asthma Score" for the area, providing a general overview of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in accessible primary care. Stevenson, a relatively small community, likely faces challenges in attracting and retaining a high density of PCPs. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment lengths, and potentially compromised patient care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access. The exact physician-to-patient ratio for 35772 requires specific data that is not publicly available. However, we can infer that rural areas often struggle to match the ratios seen in more populated urban centers. This scarcity can particularly affect asthma patients, who require regular checkups and prompt care during exacerbations.

Within the Stevenson area, the presence of standout primary care practices could significantly influence the Asthma Score. These practices might distinguish themselves through factors like specialized asthma care protocols, dedicated asthma educators, or convenient appointment scheduling. Identifying these practices would involve reviewing patient testimonials, assessing the availability of in-house pulmonary function testing, and examining the practice's commitment to patient education. A practice that actively promotes asthma self-management plans, provides clear instructions for medication use, and offers readily available contact for questions would likely contribute positively to the local Asthma Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the assessment. Telemedicine offers a valuable solution, particularly for patients in rural areas who may face geographical barriers to accessing care. Remote consultations, medication management, and educational sessions via telehealth can improve asthma control and reduce the need for emergency room visits. The extent to which primary care providers in Stevenson have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will directly affect the Asthma Score. Practices that have integrated telehealth platforms effectively, especially those that offer remote monitoring of peak flow meters or symptom trackers, would contribute to a higher score.

Mental health considerations are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they are critically important. Asthma can trigger anxiety and depression, and these mental health issues can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. The availability of mental health resources, either within primary care practices or through referrals to local mental health professionals, is therefore a crucial factor. The presence of integrated behavioral health services, or partnerships with mental health providers, would significantly enhance the Asthma Score. Practices that prioritize patient well-being by screening for mental health concerns and offering support contribute to better overall asthma management.

The hypothetical Asthma Score for Stevenson, Alabama (35772) would be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed. Without access to specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice-specific details, and telemedicine adoption rates, a precise score cannot be calculated. However, based on general knowledge of rural healthcare challenges, the score would likely be moderate. The score would be influenced by the scarcity of PCPs, the potential for limited access to specialized asthma care, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption and mental health integration. The score could be improved through initiatives that attract more physicians to the area, encourage telemedicine adoption, and facilitate partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers.

To improve the Asthma Score, the community could focus on several areas. Recruiting more PCPs, particularly those with a special interest in pulmonology or asthma management, would be a priority. Supporting the adoption of telemedicine by providing training and resources to local practices could also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting the integration of mental health services into primary care, either through in-house providers or referral networks, would be a significant step forward.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care in Stevenson, Alabama, highlights the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While challenges exist, opportunities for improvement are present. The Asthma Score is a dynamic measure that can be improved through strategic initiatives.

Want to visualize these healthcare disparities and identify areas for improvement? CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for analyzing geographic data and understanding healthcare access. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare challenges and opportunities in your community.