35974, Geraldine, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35974, Geraldine, Alabama is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.82 percent of the residents in 35974 has some form of health insurance. 31.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.61 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 35974 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 465 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35974. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 259 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,880 health care providers accessible to residents in 35974, Geraldine, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Geraldine, Alabama (ZIP Code 35974)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within Geraldine, Alabama (ZIP Code 35974) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all impacting an "Asthma Score" for residents. This score isn't a formal, standardized metric, but rather a holistic assessment based on available data and insights.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Geraldine, and the surrounding rural area of DeKalb County, presents a significant challenge. Rural communities often face shortages of primary care physicians, and specialists like pulmonologists are even scarcer. This scarcity directly impacts asthma care. A higher patient-to-physician ratio means longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and less time for detailed patient education and management. The limited availability of specialists forces many patients to travel significant distances for specialized care, adding to the burden of managing a chronic condition.

Identifying "standout practices" within the area is crucial. While a comprehensive review of all practices is beyond the scope of this analysis, we can consider factors that contribute to superior asthma care. These include practices that: offer comprehensive asthma action plans, provide thorough patient education on medication use and environmental triggers, utilize spirometry and other diagnostic tools effectively, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing patient monitoring. Practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives and adhering to national guidelines for asthma management are also likely to provide higher-quality care. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice significantly enhances patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption plays a critical role in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be physically located in Geraldine. For asthma patients, telemedicine can facilitate medication management, provide virtual check-ups, and offer educational resources. The ability to monitor patients' symptoms remotely through connected devices, such as peak flow meters, allows for proactive intervention and prevents exacerbations. The success of telemedicine, however, depends on reliable internet access, which can be a challenge in some rural areas.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression are common among asthma patients, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and overall quality of life. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, an essential component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This integration could include on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or the use of telehealth platforms to provide mental health support. The ability to address the psychological aspects of asthma management can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Primary care availability in Geraldine is a critical factor influencing the "Asthma Score". Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for asthma patients. Their ability to diagnose, manage, and refer patients to specialists is essential. The accessibility of primary care providers, including their office hours, appointment availability, and acceptance of various insurance plans, directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate asthma care. The presence of urgent care facilities can also provide access to care during exacerbations, though these facilities may not offer the same level of ongoing asthma management as a primary care physician.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Geraldine, Alabama (ZIP Code 35974) is likely to be negatively impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The limited physician-to-patient ratio, the potential scarcity of specialist care, and the need for reliable internet access for telemedicine all contribute to a lower score. While efforts to improve primary care availability, increase telemedicine adoption, and integrate mental health resources can positively impact the score, significant improvements will require ongoing investment and collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Geraldine and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the demographic characteristics of the population, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the data, enabling a more comprehensive analysis of the factors impacting asthma care in your community.