36017, Clio, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36017, Clio, Alabama is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 48.97 percent of the residents in 36017 has some form of health insurance. 26.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 29.23 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 36017 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 526 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36017. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 393 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17 health care providers accessible to residents in 36017, Clio, Alabama.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36017 and Primary Care Availability in Clio**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 36017, encompassing the city of Clio, Alabama, evaluating the availability of primary care physicians and related resources. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective asthma management within the community.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on accessible primary care. In Clio, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like asthma. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 36017 is paramount. This data can be obtained from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards. The score will be negatively impacted if the ratio is unfavorable.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the types of practices available significantly influence the Asthma Score. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger, multi-specialty groups? Larger groups often provide a broader range of services, including respiratory specialists, which are crucial for comprehensive asthma care. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance from Clio will positively affect the score. The availability of on-site diagnostic equipment, such as spirometry, which measures lung function, also contributes to a higher score.

Standout practices within the area deserve specific recognition. Identifying clinics that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management is essential. This involves looking for practices that have implemented asthma action plans, provide patient education materials, and actively monitor patient outcomes. Reviewing patient testimonials and online reviews can offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided by these practices. Practices with specialized asthma clinics or programs will significantly boost the overall Asthma Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, especially during exacerbations. Telemedicine can reduce the need for emergency room visits and improve medication adherence through virtual check-ins. The availability of telemedicine services within the primary care practices in 36017 will be considered favorably. Practices offering virtual asthma management programs will contribute to a higher score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a significant role in asthma management. Asthma, being a chronic condition, can contribute to anxiety and depression. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practices or through referrals to local mental health professionals, is vital. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and counseling into their asthma care plans will receive a higher score. The presence of support groups for asthma patients and their families will also positively impact the score.

The Asthma Score also considers the presence of pharmacies and the ease of access to medications. Are there pharmacies within a reasonable distance from the residents of Clio? Are the pharmacies well-stocked with asthma medications and inhalers? The availability of medication counseling services and the ability to refill prescriptions easily are also important factors. The score will be positively affected by the presence of pharmacies and the ease of access to medications.

Community resources also play a role. The presence of local health initiatives focused on asthma education and prevention, such as those run by the county health department or local hospitals, can improve the Asthma Score. These initiatives often provide valuable resources for patients and families, including asthma education classes, support groups, and access to free or low-cost medications.

The score will be determined by a weighted average of these factors. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance in asthma management. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the availability and quality of asthma care in ZIP code 36017. The score will be categorized into levels such as "Excellent," "Good," "Fair," or "Poor," providing a clear indication of the healthcare landscape.

For example, a practice demonstrating a high physician-to-patient ratio, a respiratory specialist on staff, robust telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health services would receive a significantly higher score than a practice with limited resources. The presence of community resources and accessible pharmacies would further enhance the score. Conversely, a lack of specialists, limited telemedicine options, and a scarcity of mental health services would negatively impact the score.

Data collection is essential for this analysis. This involves gathering information from various sources, including medical directories, insurance providers, local hospitals, and pharmacies. It also requires reviewing online reviews, patient testimonials, and community health reports. Analyzing this data will paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Clio and provide a basis for the Asthma Score assessment.

The analysis will also identify any gaps in care. This includes identifying areas where resources are lacking, such as a shortage of specialists or limited access to mental health services. This information can be used to inform efforts to improve asthma care in the community.

The Asthma Score analysis is not just a static assessment; it is a dynamic tool. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new practices opening, telemedicine services expanding, and community resources being developed. The score should be updated regularly to reflect these changes.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Clio, AL, is crucial for improving the lives of those with asthma. The Asthma Score provides a framework for assessing the availability and quality of care, identifying areas for improvement, and ultimately, helping patients manage their condition more effectively.
For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice specializations, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the healthcare landscape in 36017 and beyond.