36108, Montgomery, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36108, Montgomery, Alabama is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.96 percent of the residents in 36108 has some form of health insurance. 59.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.11 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 36108 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,514 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36108. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,242 health care providers accessible to residents in 36108, Montgomery, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Montgomery, AL (ZIP Code 36108)

Analyzing asthma care within Montgomery, Alabama's 36108 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the crucial link to mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, offering insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The foundation of any asthma care assessment lies in physician availability. In ZIP code 36108, a key indicator is the primary care physician (PCP) to patient ratio. While precise, real-time figures are dynamic and fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide estimates. A high patient-to-PCP ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, poses a significant challenge. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma management strategies, including diagnosis, medication adjustments, and education on triggers and self-management. The overall Asthma Score suffers when access to timely primary care is limited.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts asthma management. Certain practices within 36108 may stand out due to their specialized asthma care programs. These programs often incorporate comprehensive patient education, including inhaler technique training and trigger identification. They might also offer on-site pulmonary function testing (spirometry) for accurate diagnosis and monitoring. Practices that proactively engage patients in their care, encouraging regular check-ups and adherence to treatment plans, contribute positively to the Asthma Score. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a particularly strong indicator of quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor influencing the Asthma Score. The ability to access care remotely, especially for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can significantly improve asthma management, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited access to in-person care. Practices embracing telemedicine can provide more frequent monitoring of asthma symptoms, allowing for quicker interventions and preventing exacerbations. The integration of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, further enhances telemedicine's effectiveness. The Asthma Score benefits from increased telemedicine adoption.

The connection between asthma and mental health is undeniable. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Conversely, psychological distress can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the 36108 area is a crucial component of the Asthma Score. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their asthma care protocols demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Collaboration with mental health professionals, including therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for providing comprehensive support. The Asthma Score is elevated when mental health resources are readily available and integrated into asthma management.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score considers the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to pulmonologists and allergists is essential for patients with complex or severe asthma. The proximity of specialists and the ease with which patients can obtain referrals are significant factors. The Asthma Score is enhanced when patients have access to specialized care.

Analyzing the Asthma Score also involves assessing the prevalence of asthma triggers within the 36108 ZIP code. Environmental factors, such as air quality, pollen counts, and the presence of allergens like mold and dust mites, can significantly impact asthma symptoms. Public health initiatives aimed at mitigating these triggers, such as air quality monitoring and public awareness campaigns, contribute positively to the overall asthma environment and, consequently, the Asthma Score.

The availability of emergency care resources is a vital element. The proximity of hospitals and urgent care centers equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is crucial. The Asthma Score benefits from accessible emergency care.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for 36108 reflects a complex interplay of factors. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of specialists, the prevalence of environmental triggers, and access to emergency care. A high Asthma Score indicates robust care, while a low score highlights areas needing improvement.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of these factors within Montgomery and to identify areas with the greatest needs, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, allowing for a comprehensive and insightful assessment of asthma care within the 36108 ZIP code and beyond. Explore the power of data visualization to improve asthma care.