36006, Billingsley, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36006, Billingsley, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.38 percent of the residents in 36006 has some form of health insurance. 32.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.94 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 36006 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36006. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 412 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 39 health care providers accessible to residents in 36006, Billingsley, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Billingsley, AL (ZIP Code 36006)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP Code 36006, focusing on primary care resources and the specific needs of individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. We'll examine physician accessibility, practice characteristics, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial factors in effectively managing asthma. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in Billingsley, Alabama.

The cornerstone of asthma management often begins with primary care physicians (PCPs). Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in this area is the first step. Publicly available data, such as that from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, can provide estimates of the number of PCPs practicing within ZIP Code 36006 and the surrounding areas. However, simply knowing the number of physicians isn't enough. The number of patients each physician sees, including those with asthma, provides a more accurate picture of accessibility. High patient-to-physician ratios can lead to longer wait times for appointments and less time for individual patient care, potentially impacting asthma control.

Beyond sheer numbers, the types of primary care practices are important. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger multi-specialty clinics? Larger clinics often have the advantage of offering a wider range of services, including on-site pharmacies, laboratory services, and possibly even respiratory therapists. These integrated services can streamline the asthma management process, making it easier for patients to access the care they need. Conversely, smaller practices may offer a more personalized approach, allowing for a closer doctor-patient relationship.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This requires looking beyond basic metrics. Are any practices recognized for their commitment to asthma care? This could involve actively participating in asthma education programs, consistently achieving high patient satisfaction scores, or demonstrating excellent control of asthma symptoms among their patient population. Information about these practices could be gleaned from patient reviews, local community health organizations, or through direct inquiries to local practices.

The adoption of telemedicine is a key consideration in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Remote consultations, medication refills, and virtual monitoring of asthma symptoms can all be facilitated through telemedicine platforms. Assessing which practices in ZIP Code 36006 offer telemedicine services and the scope of those services is essential. Do they offer virtual follow-up appointments, or do they provide remote monitoring devices to track lung function? The availability and utilization of telemedicine can significantly impact asthma management, especially during times of increased respiratory illness, such as flu season.

Asthma is not only a physical ailment; it can also significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and the stress of managing the condition can exacerbate these issues. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive asthma care. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists, who are readily accessible in the Billingsley area? Do primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health services? Integrated care models, where mental health professionals are embedded within primary care practices, can be particularly beneficial, as they facilitate seamless coordination of care and reduce barriers to accessing mental health support.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care is important. While PCPs are the primary point of contact for most asthma patients, some individuals may require the expertise of a pulmonologist or allergist. Assessing the proximity of these specialists to ZIP Code 36006 and the ease of access to their services is essential. This includes considering factors such as appointment wait times, insurance coverage, and the availability of specialized diagnostic testing and treatment options.

The overall assessment of asthma care in Billingsley, Alabama, involves a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of local practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the quality and accessibility of care. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved services within their community. Understanding the local landscape empowers patients to take control of their health and work collaboratively with their healthcare providers to achieve optimal asthma control.

To get a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Billingsley, including physician locations, practice types, and resource availability, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can visualize this complex data, providing valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers. Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your area.