Health Scores Near 35957, Boaz, Alabama
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The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35957, Boaz, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 87.70 percent of the residents in 35957 has some form of health insurance. 42.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.02 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 35957 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 4,756 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35957. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,711 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,360 health care providers accessible to residents in 35957, Boaz, Alabama.
Health Scores in 35957, Boaz, Alabama
| Asthma Score | 4 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 11 |
| Provider Score | 27 |
| Hospital Score | 17 |
| Travel Score | 40 |
| 35957 | Boaz | Alabama | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The analysis below assesses the asthma care landscape in ZIP code 35957 (Boaz, Alabama) focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability, healthcare resource accessibility, and the overall potential for asthma management improvements. The goal is to evaluate the current state of asthma care, identify areas for development, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
Boaz, Alabama, a town nestled in Marshall County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering asthma care. The rural nature of the area influences access to specialized medical services and the availability of healthcare professionals. This analysis delves into several key aspects of the local healthcare system to provide a comprehensive asthma score assessment.
Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Critical Indicator
The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric in evaluating healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary asthma care. Accurate physician-to-patient ratio data for Boaz requires careful examination. National averages often don't reflect rural realities. Researching the number of PCPs actively practicing within ZIP code 35957, alongside the area's population, is crucial. This data will determine the availability of timely care, especially for those with chronic conditions like asthma.
Standout Practices: Identifying Centers of Excellence
Identifying practices that excel in asthma management is vital. This requires a review of local practices, focusing on specific criteria. Does the practice have a designated asthma specialist or a team with expertise in managing asthma? Do they adhere to the latest asthma guidelines, such as those published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH)? Do they offer patient education programs on asthma triggers, medication management, and proper inhaler technique? Are they equipped with necessary diagnostic tools, such as spirometry? Practices that meet these criteria should be highlighted as examples of best practices. Investigating patient reviews and satisfaction surveys offers further insight into the quality of care.
Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Geographic Gap
Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in Boaz directly impacts asthma care accessibility. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel, particularly beneficial for those with breathing difficulties. The presence of telemedicine services can improve the management of asthma, especially for routine follow-up appointments and medication adjustments. Researching which practices offer telemedicine options and the types of services available is critical.
Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Psychological Impact
Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental health. The chronic nature of the condition, the fear of asthma attacks, and the limitations it can impose on daily activities can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore crucial. Assessing the availability of these resources within Boaz, and whether PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health providers, is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma score. The integration of mental health services into asthma care improves patient outcomes and overall well-being.
Specifics and Data Gathering
To perform a thorough analysis, specific data points are needed. This includes:
* **Number of PCPs:** The exact number of PCPs practicing within ZIP code 35957.
* **Specialists:** The availability of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists in the area.
* **Hospital Facilities:** The presence of a hospital with an emergency department equipped to handle asthma attacks.
* **Medication Availability:** The accessibility of pharmacies and the availability of essential asthma medications.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The percentage of the population with health insurance and the types of insurance accepted by local practices.
* **Patient Education:** The availability of asthma education programs and resources.
* **Telemedicine Platforms:** The specific telemedicine platforms used by local practices.
* **Mental Health Professionals:** The number of mental health professionals and their availability for referrals.
Analyzing these data points will provide a more accurate asthma score for Boaz.
The Asthma Score Framework
The asthma score should be based on a weighted system. Key factors, such as physician-to-patient ratios, access to specialists, and mental health resources, should carry the most weight. Telemedicine adoption and patient education programs should also be significant contributors. The score should be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy comparison and identification of areas for improvement.
Recommendations and Future Directions
Based on the analysis, recommendations for improvement should be developed. These could include:
* **Recruiting more PCPs and specialists** to address physician shortages.
* **Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine** by local practices.
* **Improving access to mental health resources** for asthma patients.
* **Promoting patient education programs** on asthma management.
* **Facilitating collaboration** between PCPs, specialists, and mental health providers.
Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and ensure that asthma care in Boaz continues to improve.
Leveraging CartoChrome Maps
To visualize and analyze the data collected, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can be used to create a visual representation of the asthma score, highlighting areas of strength and weakness within Boaz. They can also be used to map the locations of PCPs, specialists, pharmacies, and mental health resources, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for understanding and improving asthma care in Boaz.
Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape of Boaz, Alabama, and gain valuable insights into asthma care accessibility? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps and discover how they can transform your data into actionable intelligence. Visit our website today to learn more and request a demo.
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