35988, Sylvania, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 35988, Sylvania, Alabama is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.75 percent of the residents in 35988 has some form of health insurance. 32.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.01 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 35988 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 590 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35988. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 374 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 837 health care providers accessible to residents in 35988, Sylvania, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Sylvania, Alabama (ZIP Code 35988)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality for asthma sufferers in Sylvania, Alabama (ZIP Code 35988) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We'll examine the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized asthma care, the integration of telemedicine, and the support for mental health, all crucial elements impacting an "Asthma Score" for the area. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for asthma patients.

The foundation of asthma care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). Determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Sylvania is critical. While precise figures fluctuate, accessing data from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and the US Census Bureau provides a starting point. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care and timely intervention during asthma exacerbations. Sylvania, being a rural area, might face challenges in this regard.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code matters. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving others underserved? This geographic disparity could create unequal access for residents. Analyzing the location of practices and the demographics they serve is essential. Furthermore, it is vital to understand if any practices within the area specifically advertise asthma management services or have staff with expertise in asthma care. This may include certified asthma educators or pulmonologists who see patients on a regular basis.

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide insights into patient satisfaction with care. Are patients consistently reporting positive experiences related to asthma management? Do practices offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments for urgent needs? Practices that prioritize patient communication, education, and follow-up care are likely to score higher. These practices are also more likely to have a good understanding of the latest asthma treatment guidelines.

The adoption of telemedicine presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among local practices is crucial. Do practices offer virtual consultations for routine follow-ups, medication management, or symptom monitoring? The use of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with data transmission capabilities, can further enhance telemedicine's effectiveness. Telemedicine can be a key factor in improving the Asthma Score.

Asthma often co-occurs with mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. These conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and impact overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Asthma Score. Are mental health professionals readily accessible within the community? Do local practices offer integrated mental health services or have referral pathways to mental health specialists? Access to mental health support can greatly improve patient outcomes.

The presence of community resources also plays a role. Does the community have asthma support groups, educational programs, or partnerships with local pharmacies? These resources can provide valuable support and education for asthma patients and their families. Local pharmacies that offer medication counseling and asthma education programs can significantly improve the quality of care.

Evaluating the local hospital system is another important step. Does the hospital have specialized asthma care units or staff trained in asthma management? The availability of emergency care for asthma exacerbations is crucial. The hospital's ability to provide prompt and effective treatment can significantly impact patient outcomes. This can impact the Asthma Score.

Finally, the affordability of healthcare services is a significant factor. Are local practices accepting a variety of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare? Are there programs available to help patients afford their medications and other asthma-related expenses? Financial barriers can significantly impact access to care and adherence to treatment plans.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for Sylvania (35988) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. While Sylvania might face challenges common to rural areas, understanding these factors and identifying areas for improvement is crucial for enhancing asthma care. The data gathered can be used to improve the Asthma Score.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the local healthcare landscape and identifying areas where improvements are needed.