36263, Graham, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36263, Graham, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.10 percent of the residents in 36263 has some form of health insurance. 51.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.15 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 36263 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 127 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36263. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 75 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 103 health care providers accessible to residents in 36263, Graham, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36263 & Primary Care in Graham, Alabama

This analysis provides an assessment of asthma care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 36263, encompassing the city of Graham, Alabama, and its surrounding areas. The focus is on evaluating the resources available to asthma sufferers, considering factors such as physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. The goal is to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management lies in the availability of qualified healthcare professionals. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. In Graham, the ideal is a ratio allowing for adequate appointment scheduling and timely intervention. However, rural areas often face challenges. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts asthma care. PCPs often act as the first point of contact, managing chronic conditions like asthma. A scarcity of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment plans, and increased reliance on emergency room visits, all of which negatively impact asthma control.

The analysis considers the specific characteristics of medical practices within the ZIP code. Are there any practices that stand out for their commitment to asthma care? This includes factors like specialized asthma clinics, the availability of certified asthma educators, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices that proactively manage asthma, offering patient education, regular follow-up appointments, and personalized care plans, typically achieve better patient outcomes. The presence of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is also a key indicator. Their expertise is critical for complex asthma cases and for providing advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has emerged as a significant tool, particularly in rural settings. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a critical factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. This can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and enable more frequent check-ins, ultimately leading to better asthma control. The availability of telehealth appointments and the ease of use of the platforms are important considerations.

Asthma is often linked to mental health. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to psychological distress. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system is a crucial component of effective asthma management. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can address the psychological aspects of the disease. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of ancillary services, such as respiratory therapists, who play a vital role in asthma management. Respiratory therapists provide specialized care, including pulmonary function testing, medication administration, and patient education on proper inhaler techniques. The presence of these professionals within the local healthcare system contributes to a more comprehensive approach to asthma care.

The geographic distribution of healthcare resources is also examined. Are healthcare facilities concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This analysis considers the proximity of medical practices to patients, the availability of transportation options, and the overall accessibility of care. Addressing geographic disparities is essential to ensure that all residents have equal access to quality asthma care.

The evaluation also considers the role of community resources. Local pharmacies play a crucial role in asthma management, providing medications, offering patient counseling, and ensuring medication adherence. The availability of community support groups and educational programs for asthma sufferers can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition.

The analysis evaluates the practices’ adherence to national asthma guidelines. The National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for asthma diagnosis, treatment, and management. Practices that follow these guidelines demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. This includes regular assessment of asthma control, the use of appropriate medications, and the development of personalized asthma action plans.

The analysis also considers the cost of care. The affordability of asthma medications and healthcare services is a significant factor. Practices that offer affordable care options, such as sliding-scale fees or assistance programs, can help to ensure that asthma care is accessible to all patients, regardless of their financial circumstances.

In conclusion, the evaluation of asthma care and primary care accessibility in ZIP code 36263, encompassing Graham, Alabama, requires a comprehensive approach. It involves assessing physician availability, practice characteristics, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of ancillary services, the geographic distribution of resources, the role of community resources, adherence to national guidelines, and the cost of care. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and to identify opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Graham and surrounding areas, including the locations of medical practices, pharmacies, and other relevant facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify the resources that are available to you.