36312, Ashford, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36312, Ashford, Alabama is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.19 percent of the residents in 36312 has some form of health insurance. 42.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.02 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 36312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,429 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36312. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,470 health care providers accessible to residents in 36312, Ashford, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Ashford, Alabama (ZIP Code 36312)

Analyzing asthma care within Ashford, Alabama (ZIP Code 36312) requires a multi-faceted approach, moving beyond simple counts to assess the quality and accessibility of care. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," considers physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the integration of mental health support, all crucial factors in managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management is access to qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). Ashford, a relatively small community, likely experiences challenges in this regard. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where a limited number of PCPs serve a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient, and potentially compromised care. While precise physician-to-patient ratios require specific data, a preliminary assessment can be made by examining publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards. These resources can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are essential. Are practices accepting new patients? Are they equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, to accurately assess lung function? Do they adhere to established asthma management guidelines, such as those published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care, continuous quality improvement, and patient education would receive higher scores. This can be determined by checking their accreditation, patient reviews, and the availability of educational materials.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the asthma score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for asthma patients, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care may be limited. Telehealth visits can facilitate medication management, symptom monitoring, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, would score higher. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with digital data transmission, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management.

Asthma is not merely a physical condition; it often has a significant impact on mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, exacerbating symptoms and impacting quality of life. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma care plan. Practices that offer or readily refer patients to mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists, would receive higher scores. This includes having established relationships with mental health providers and providing educational materials on the connection between asthma and mental well-being.

Identifying standout practices within Ashford requires a deeper dive. This involves reviewing patient testimonials, assessing the practice's commitment to patient education, and evaluating their adherence to established asthma management guidelines. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing them with the knowledge and tools to self-manage their condition, would be recognized as leaders in asthma care. This includes providing detailed asthma action plans, offering support groups, and actively monitoring patient adherence to treatment plans.

The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a static metric but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving landscape of asthma care. It considers various factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This score is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the quality and accessibility of asthma care within Ashford, Alabama (ZIP Code 36312).

Analyzing the primary care landscape in Ashford necessitates examining the geographic distribution of practices. Are practices clustered in specific areas, potentially creating access disparities for residents in other parts of the ZIP code? Are there transportation barriers that limit access to care? Understanding the geographic distribution of practices is crucial for identifying underserved populations and developing strategies to improve access to care.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score would also evaluate the availability of specialized asthma care. While PCPs are the first line of defense, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma may require referral to pulmonologists or allergists. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable distance of Ashford is a positive factor in the Asthma Score. The ability to rapidly access specialized care is essential for managing complex asthma cases and preventing hospitalizations.

The Asthma Score should also consider the demographics of the population served. Are there specific populations, such as children or the elderly, who are disproportionately affected by asthma within Ashford? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to serving these vulnerable populations, tailoring their care to meet their specific needs, would receive higher scores. This includes offering culturally sensitive care, providing language assistance, and addressing the social determinants of health that may impact asthma management.

Finally, the Asthma Score should be periodically updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The adoption of new technologies, the emergence of new treatments, and the evolving understanding of asthma management all necessitate a continuous reassessment of the Asthma Score. This dynamic approach ensures that the score remains a relevant and valuable tool for evaluating and improving asthma care within Ashford.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ashford, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and potential areas of improvement, explore the power of visualization. **CartoChrome maps** can provide a detailed, interactive view of the data, allowing you to identify patterns, assess access to care, and pinpoint areas where resources are most needed.