36574, Seminole, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36574, Seminole, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.03 percent of the residents in 36574 has some form of health insurance. 59.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.11 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 36574 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 287 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36574. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 375 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,467 health care providers accessible to residents in 36574, Seminole, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36574 and Primary Care in Seminole

This analysis evaluates the quality of asthma care and primary care access within ZIP code 36574, located in Seminole, Alabama. We will consider factors impacting asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, ultimately providing an ‘Asthma Score’ assessment. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their care.

The foundation of effective asthma management is readily available primary care. Examining physician-to-patient ratios in Seminole provides a crucial starting point. National averages suggest an ideal ratio of around 1:1300 for primary care physicians. Local data is essential to determine if Seminole meets this standard. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate follow-up care, and exacerbations of asthma symptoms. This, in turn, can increase hospitalizations and emergency room visits.

Within ZIP code 36574, the presence of dedicated pulmonologists or allergists is paramount. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose and manage complex asthma cases. Analyzing the number of specialists practicing within the area, their board certifications, and their affiliations with local hospitals is crucial. The proximity of these specialists to patients, including travel time and accessibility, significantly impacts the quality of care.

Beyond physician availability, the characteristics of medical practices play a vital role. Practices that embrace evidence-based asthma guidelines, offer comprehensive patient education, and actively monitor patient outcomes contribute to superior care. Investigating the availability of asthma action plans, peak flow meters, and patient education materials within local practices is essential. Practices that prioritize patient education and self-management strategies empower individuals to take control of their condition.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services among local practices, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, is crucial. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve access to specialists, and enhance patient adherence to treatment plans.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore essential. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, and the availability of support groups or counseling services specifically for individuals with asthma.

Standout practices within ZIP code 36574 warrant special attention. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma management, patient satisfaction, and innovative care delivery models provides valuable insights. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing practice performance metrics, and recognizing practices that have implemented best practices in asthma care. These exemplary practices can serve as models for other providers in the area.

The ‘Asthma Score’ for ZIP code 36574 will be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed. It will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The score will be presented on a scale, allowing for easy interpretation and comparison. A high score indicates a favorable environment for asthma management, while a low score suggests areas needing improvement.

Assessing primary care availability throughout Seminole requires a broader perspective. Understanding the distribution of primary care physicians across the county, the accessibility of these physicians to residents in ZIP code 36574, and the presence of community health centers or other safety-net providers is critical. The overall primary care infrastructure in Seminole directly impacts the ability of individuals with asthma to receive timely and appropriate care.

Data collection for this analysis involves several steps. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Alabama Department of Public Health, and the American Medical Association (AMA) will be utilized. Furthermore, surveys and interviews with local healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and community members will provide valuable qualitative data. This combined approach will ensure a comprehensive and accurate assessment.

The analysis will also consider the social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and environmental factors. These factors can significantly influence asthma outcomes. Understanding the impact of these determinants is essential for developing targeted interventions to improve asthma care. For example, addressing housing conditions, air quality, and transportation barriers can help reduce asthma exacerbations.

In conclusion, this ‘Asthma Score’ analysis aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of asthma care and primary care access in ZIP code 36574 and Seminole. By examining physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. This information can empower residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work collaboratively to enhance asthma management and improve the overall health of the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 36574 and Seminole, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps.