36035, Goshen, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36035, Goshen, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.75 percent of the residents in 36035 has some form of health insurance. 38.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.15 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 36035 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 602 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36035. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 361 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 327 health care providers accessible to residents in 36035, Goshen, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Goshen, Alabama (ZIP Code 36035)

Goshen, Alabama, a rural community nestled in Pike County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering asthma care and primary care access. This analysis provides an “Asthma Score” assessment for doctors within ZIP code 36035, focusing on key factors impacting asthma management and overall healthcare accessibility. The score considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements for comprehensive asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Goshen is a critical starting point. Rural areas often face a shortage of healthcare providers, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to specialized care. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios require continuous data collection, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. Examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases, including asthma) practicing within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable driving distance, is essential. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, would negatively impact the Asthma Score. This scarcity can disproportionately affect individuals with chronic conditions like asthma, who require regular check-ups and ongoing management.

Standout practices within the Goshen area can significantly elevate the Asthma Score. These practices demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care. Key indicators of a standout practice include: offering comprehensive asthma management plans tailored to individual patient needs; utilizing evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment; providing patient education on asthma triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques; and demonstrating a proactive approach to preventative care, such as regular asthma control assessments and flu vaccinations. Practices employing certified asthma educators, offering in-house pulmonary function testing, and actively participating in community outreach programs related to asthma awareness would further enhance their standing.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in the modern healthcare landscape, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access healthcare services remotely. For asthma management, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, would receive a higher score. This is particularly important for patients with asthma who may experience exacerbations and require prompt medical attention. Telemedicine also allows for more frequent check-ins, improving patient adherence to treatment plans and reducing the need for emergency room visits.

The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is another important aspect of the Asthma Score. Asthma, being a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively affect treatment adherence. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either in-house or through referrals, would be viewed favorably. This includes offering counseling services, support groups, or collaborating with mental health professionals to provide integrated care. This holistic approach to patient care recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, leading to better overall outcomes for asthma patients.

Primary care availability in Goshen is inextricably linked to the Asthma Score. The accessibility of primary care physicians is the foundation of good asthma management. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients with asthma, providing initial diagnoses, prescribing medications, and coordinating care with specialists when needed. Assessing the availability of PCPs involves considering factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and the overall patient load of each practice. Practices that have shorter wait times, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and have a manageable patient load will contribute positively to the overall Asthma Score.

Specific practices in Goshen that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care would significantly influence the score. Identifying these practices requires a combination of factors. Reviewing online patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Examining the practice's website and promotional materials can reveal the specific services offered, including asthma management programs and patient education resources. Contacting the practices directly to inquire about their asthma care protocols and patient support services can also provide valuable information.

The Asthma Score for doctors in ZIP code 36035, therefore, is a composite measure that reflects the interplay of several factors. A high score indicates a community with good access to primary care, a sufficient physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices providing comprehensive asthma management, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests challenges in accessing quality asthma care, potentially due to a shortage of providers, limited resources, or a lack of integrated services.

Evaluating the Asthma Score requires a dynamic approach. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare models emerging. Regular assessments and updates are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the score. The ongoing monitoring of physician-to-patient ratios, the evaluation of practice performance, and the assessment of telemedicine adoption are all necessary to maintain a reliable and informative Asthma Score.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Goshen, including physician locations, practice specializations, and potential areas of unmet need, we recommend exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help identify opportunities to improve asthma care in the community.