36453, Kinston, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36453, Kinston, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.80 percent of the residents in 36453 has some form of health insurance. 41.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.37 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 36453 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 369 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36453. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 538 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 239 health care providers accessible to residents in 36453, Kinston, Alabama.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacts communities, particularly those with limited access to quality healthcare. This analysis delves into the asthma care landscape within ZIP Code 36453 (likely encompassing Kinston, Alabama) and assesses the availability of primary care, crucial for managing this condition. We will evaluate the resources available, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, culminating in a call to action.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. In Kinston, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a key metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights into these ratios, though precise, real-time figures are often difficult to obtain. The overall trend, however, will provide a valuable indication.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) that provide care to a broader population, including those with limited financial resources? These clinics often play a vital role in providing affordable and comprehensive care, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Assessing the presence and capacity of these facilities is essential.

Identifying standout practices is a key component of this analysis. Practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma management often employ evidence-based guidelines, offer patient education programs, and collaborate effectively with specialists. These practices may have dedicated asthma educators, nurses trained in asthma care, and readily available spirometry testing. Examining patient reviews and testimonials can provide qualitative insights into the patient experience, highlighting practices that prioritize patient-centered care. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and track asthma control metrics are likely to deliver better outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Kinston. Telehealth consultations can reduce travel burdens and provide timely access to medical advice and medication refills. Assessing the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine is crucial. Do they offer virtual appointments for follow-up visits? Do they use remote monitoring devices to track patients' symptoms and medication adherence? Practices that embrace telehealth can significantly improve the accessibility and convenience of asthma care.

Asthma often co-exists with mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and negatively impact treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an important consideration. Are mental health professionals integrated into primary care practices? Are there local mental health clinics or support groups available? Practices that screen for mental health issues and provide or facilitate access to mental health services are better equipped to provide comprehensive asthma care.

To assess the overall asthma care landscape, we need to synthesize the information gathered. The analysis should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of PCPs, the presence of FQHCs or RHCs, the existence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive assessment will provide a more complete picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the asthma care system in Kinston.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence asthma outcomes. Poverty, housing conditions, and environmental exposures can all contribute to asthma exacerbations. Understanding the social determinants of health in Kinston is crucial for developing effective interventions. Are there programs in place to address housing issues, reduce environmental pollutants, and provide support to low-income families? Addressing these broader social issues is essential for improving asthma outcomes.

The analysis can also benefit from a review of local and regional healthcare initiatives. Are there any asthma-specific programs or coalitions working to improve asthma care in the area? Are there any partnerships between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations? These initiatives can play a vital role in raising awareness, providing education, and improving access to care.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma care landscape in Kinston, Alabama (ZIP Code 36453), requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician availability, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. This analysis should also consider socioeconomic factors and local healthcare initiatives. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available and identify areas for improvement. By focusing on these key areas, we can work towards improving the quality of life for individuals living with asthma in this community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Kinston, including the location of practices, the distribution of healthcare providers, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can offer a powerful visual tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas with the greatest need.