36445, Frisco City, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36445, Frisco City, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.27 percent of the residents in 36445 has some form of health insurance. 43.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.79 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 36445 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,049 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36445. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,144 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 100 health care providers accessible to residents in 36445, Frisco City, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Frisco City, Alabama (ZIP Code 36445)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Frisco City, Alabama (ZIP Code 36445) requires a nuanced approach, especially concerning asthma management. The Asthma Score, in this context, isn't a formal, standardized metric. Instead, it's a composite analysis, evaluating several factors to gauge the quality and accessibility of asthma care for residents. This analysis will focus on primary care availability, physician resources, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all crucial components of holistic asthma management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Frisco City is a critical starting point. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) translates to potentially longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room visits for asthma exacerbations. Researching the specific number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, and comparing it to the population size, is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide this information. A low ratio would negatively impact the Asthma Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are the PCPs in Frisco City well-versed in asthma management guidelines, such as those established by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Do they offer comprehensive asthma action plans, tailored to each patient's needs? Do they regularly assess asthma control using validated tools like the Asthma Control Test (ACT)? Practices that consistently demonstrate adherence to these best practices would contribute positively to the Asthma Score. Investigating patient reviews, if available, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences and perceived quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within the community is crucial. Some clinics might excel in asthma management through specialized programs or experienced staff. Perhaps a practice has a dedicated respiratory therapist or a nurse educator who provides asthma education and support. Others might have invested in advanced diagnostic equipment, like spirometry, to accurately assess lung function. These practices, demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive asthma care, would significantly boost the overall Asthma Score. A practice that actively participates in community outreach programs, educating residents about asthma triggers and management strategies, would also be highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural settings like Frisco City. Remote consultations can provide timely access to medical advice, medication refills, and asthma education, especially for patients with frequent exacerbations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among local PCPs is vital. Are virtual appointments offered? Do physicians utilize remote monitoring tools to track patient symptoms and adjust treatment plans accordingly? Practices embracing telemedicine would contribute positively to the Asthma Score, particularly for patients who may struggle with transportation or have limited mobility.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and these conditions can worsen asthma control. Access to mental health resources is therefore a vital component of comprehensive asthma care. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within Frisco City is essential. Are these professionals integrated into the primary care setting, facilitating seamless referrals and coordinated care? Practices that prioritize mental health screening and offer access to mental health services, either directly or through referrals, would significantly improve the Asthma Score.

Specific examples of how practices can improve the Asthma Score are as follows. A practice could implement a system for proactively contacting patients with poorly controlled asthma to offer support and adjust treatment plans. They could also partner with local pharmacies to ensure patients have access to affordable medications and inhaler technique training. Another strategy is to conduct regular audits of asthma management practices to identify areas for improvement.

The overall Asthma Score for Frisco City (ZIP Code 36445) is influenced by the interplay of these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited telemedicine options and a lack of mental health resources, would result in a lower score. Conversely, a high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with practices that offer comprehensive asthma education, telemedicine consultations, and integrated mental health support, would lead to a higher score. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and advocate for resources that enhance asthma care for residents of Frisco City.

The analysis is based on the currently available information. Further research, including direct outreach to local healthcare providers, would provide a more comprehensive and accurate assessment. The Asthma Score is not a static measure; it should be regularly reassessed as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available. The ultimate aim is to improve the health and well-being of individuals living with asthma in Frisco City.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Frisco City, including the location of primary care practices, pharmacies, and mental health resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the accessibility of asthma care resources within your community.