36303, Dothan, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36303, Dothan, Alabama is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.88 percent of the residents in 36303 has some form of health insurance. 43.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.45 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 36303 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,884 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36303. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,681 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,500 health care providers accessible to residents in 36303, Dothan, Alabama.

Asthma management in Dothan, Alabama (ZIP code 36303), presents a complex landscape. Evaluating the quality of care requires a multi-faceted approach, moving beyond simple rankings. A comprehensive "Asthma Score" analysis necessitates considering factors such as physician availability, practice specializations, technological integration, and the availability of mental health support, all within the context of the local healthcare ecosystem. While a definitive numerical score is impossible without access to proprietary data, we can analyze key indicators to assess the state of asthma care.

Primary care physician (PCP) availability is a critical foundation. Dothan, like many areas, faces potential challenges in PCP access. High patient-to-physician ratios can strain resources, potentially impacting appointment wait times and the time PCPs can dedicate to individual patient needs. A low ratio, conversely, suggests better access and potentially more personalized care. Investigating the current ratio in 36303 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide a starting point, but it might not fully reflect the realities of appointment availability and patient load within specific practices.

Specialized care, particularly from pulmonologists and allergists, is essential for effective asthma management. These specialists possess in-depth knowledge of asthma pathophysiology and treatment options, including advanced therapies and diagnostic tools. Assessing the number of pulmonologists and allergists practicing within 36303 and the surrounding areas is crucial. Are there sufficient specialists to meet the needs of the asthma patient population? Are wait times for specialist appointments reasonable? Proximity to specialized care is a key determinant of access to optimal asthma management.

Standout practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidence-based medicine, and innovative approaches. Identifying these practices requires examining various indicators. Do they employ certified asthma educators who provide patient education and self-management training? Do they offer comprehensive asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs? Are they actively involved in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives? Are they accredited by relevant organizations, demonstrating a commitment to quality standards? Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and overall satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve asthma care, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists or transportation challenges. Telemedicine enables remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of asthma symptoms. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, providing care to patients who might otherwise face barriers to access. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption within 36303 requires investigating which practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and telehealth-integrated asthma management programs.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, and these conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, integrating mental health resources into asthma care is crucial. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who are familiar with the challenges of living with asthma. Assessing the availability of these resources within 36303 requires examining whether practices offer integrated mental health services, referrals to mental health specialists, or partnerships with mental health organizations.

Beyond the core elements of physician availability and practice features, other factors influence asthma care quality. The availability of affordable medications, the presence of community support groups, and the implementation of asthma-friendly environments in schools and workplaces contribute to a holistic approach to asthma management. These factors, while not directly reflected in a physician-focused "Asthma Score," significantly impact patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The Dothan healthcare landscape is dynamic. The "Asthma Score" for doctors in 36303 is not a static metric. It requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. Changes in physician availability, practice innovations, and the evolving needs of the patient population necessitate regular reassessment. The ongoing commitment to improving asthma care involves a collaborative effort from healthcare providers, patients, community organizations, and policymakers.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Dothan, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you analyze the data, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation. Explore the power of geospatial data to gain a deeper understanding of asthma care in 36303.