35960, Centre, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35960, Centre, Alabama is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.75 percent of the residents in 35960 has some form of health insurance. 45.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.18 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 35960 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,321 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35960. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,419 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 216 health care providers accessible to residents in 35960, Centre, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Centre, Alabama (ZIP Code 35960)

Centre, Alabama, nestled in Cherokee County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly regarding asthma management. An "Asthma Score" analysis, focusing on primary care availability and physician resources within ZIP code 35960, reveals both strengths and areas requiring improvement. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of comprehensive asthma care.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management is accessible primary care. In Centre, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of residents, especially children and the elderly, to receive timely diagnoses, establish treatment plans, and manage chronic conditions like asthma. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer asthma control. Determining the exact ratio for Centre requires a comprehensive data pull from state and national databases, but a cursory assessment suggests a potential need for increased physician recruitment, especially given the demographics of the area.

Standout practices within the community play a pivotal role in shaping the overall quality of asthma care. These practices often demonstrate exemplary care through adherence to national guidelines, patient education initiatives, and innovative approaches to asthma management. Identifying these practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the percentage of patients with controlled asthma, the frequency of emergency room visits due to asthma exacerbations, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offer specialized asthma education classes, and utilize electronic health records to track patient progress are likely to be considered standout performers. A detailed analysis would involve surveying local practices, reviewing patient outcomes data, and potentially conducting site visits to assess the quality of care firsthand.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in enhancing asthma care in Centre. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, virtual consultations with specialists, and medication management through telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Centre, including the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, and patient portals, directly influences the accessibility and convenience of asthma care. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and the utilization of modern technology.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma, being a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and psychiatric support, is therefore crucial for holistic asthma care. This includes the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or readily available referrals to external mental health providers. Assessing the integration of mental health services requires an examination of referral patterns, the availability of mental health screenings, and the presence of collaborative care models that integrate mental health professionals into the asthma care team.

Furthermore, the demographics of Centre and Cherokee County must be considered. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly influence asthma outcomes. Addressing these social determinants of health requires a multifaceted approach, including community outreach programs, patient education initiatives, and collaborations with local organizations to address the specific needs of the population. This might include providing transportation assistance to appointments, offering culturally sensitive educational materials, and addressing food insecurity, all of which can indirectly impact asthma control.

In conclusion, an "Asthma Score" analysis for Centre, Alabama (ZIP code 35960) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the level of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis should also consider the unique demographic characteristics of the community and address the social determinants of health that impact asthma outcomes. The findings of such an analysis can inform targeted interventions to improve access to care, enhance the quality of asthma management, and ultimately, improve the health and well-being of residents with asthma in Centre.

For a visual representation of physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care within Centre and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize healthcare resources, identify potential gaps in care, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Centre, Alabama.