35774, Trenton, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35774, Trenton, Alabama is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.97 percent of the residents in 35774 has some form of health insurance. 54.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.76 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 35774 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35774. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,588 health care providers accessible to residents in 35774, Trenton, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Trenton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35774)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality for asthma management in Trenton, Alabama (ZIP Code 35774) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis, resulting in an "Asthma Score," aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Trenton, assessing PCP availability involves determining the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, calculated by dividing the population of Trenton by the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas, provides a crucial metric. A high ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care, impacting asthma control. The availability of pediatricians, given the prevalence of asthma in children, is also a critical factor.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices significantly influence the Asthma Score. Practices demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based asthma management protocols, such as those recommended by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), are highly valued. This includes consistent use of peak flow meters, personalized asthma action plans, and patient education on medication adherence and environmental control. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and offer specialized asthma education programs would earn higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in asthma care. The ability to conduct virtual follow-up appointments, medication refills, and symptom monitoring can significantly improve access, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically remote areas. Practices embracing telemedicine technologies, including secure video conferencing and remote monitoring devices, receive favorable consideration. However, the Asthma Score also assesses the practice's ability to integrate telemedicine effectively, ensuring patient privacy, data security, and equitable access for all patients, regardless of their technological proficiency.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact treatment adherence. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is a critical component of the Asthma Score. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, collaborate with mental health professionals, or provide referrals to specialized care providers receive significant credit. The availability of resources addressing social determinants of health, such as housing instability and food insecurity, which can also impact asthma control, further enhances the score.

Evaluating standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual practice characteristics. Practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, prioritizing communication, shared decision-making, and cultural sensitivity, are highly regarded. This includes practices that offer extended hours, multilingual services, and readily accessible patient portals. Furthermore, practices actively involved in community outreach programs, such as asthma education workshops or support groups, demonstrate a commitment to improving the overall health of the Trenton population.

The Asthma Score also considers the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, within a reasonable distance from Trenton. While primary care physicians manage the majority of asthma cases, access to specialized care is crucial for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The presence of local pharmacies that stock asthma medications and offer medication counseling is also a factor, ensuring convenient access to necessary medications.

The Asthma Score for Trenton, Alabama, is not a static number. It reflects a dynamic assessment of the healthcare landscape, subject to change based on evolving practices, technological advancements, and community needs. This analysis is a snapshot in time, designed to inform and encourage improvements in asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Trenton, and surrounding areas, is a key factor. If the ratio is high, it will negatively impact the score. If the ratio is low, this will improve the score. The presence of pediatricians is also a critical factor for the score.

The adoption of telemedicine is a factor. If the practices are using telemedicine, this will improve the score. If the practices are not using telemedicine, this will negatively impact the score.

Mental health resources are also a factor. If the practices have mental health resources, this will improve the score. If the practices do not have mental health resources, this will negatively impact the score.

The availability of specialists is also a factor. If the practices have access to specialists, this will improve the score. If the practices do not have access to specialists, this will negatively impact the score.

Standout practices are also a factor. If the practices are standout practices, this will improve the score. If the practices are not standout practices, this will negatively impact the score.

This comprehensive analysis provides a foundation for understanding the current state of asthma care in Trenton, Alabama. It highlights areas of strength and areas requiring improvement, ultimately aiming to improve the health and well-being of individuals living with asthma.

To visualize this data and explore the spatial relationships of healthcare resources in Trenton, Alabama, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers detailed visualizations of healthcare access, allowing for a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape.