36773, Safford, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36773, Safford, Alabama is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 51.72 percent of the residents in 36773 has some form of health insurance. 45.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 7.24 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 36773 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 38 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36773. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 44 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30 health care providers accessible to residents in 36773, Safford, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36773 and Primary Care in Safford

Evaluating healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on two distinct yet interconnected areas: the availability of primary care within Safford, Arizona, and the provision of asthma-related care by physicians practicing within ZIP code 36773, which encompasses the city of Thomasville, Alabama. This assessment, framed as an "Asthma Score" analysis, considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The aim is to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, specifically highlighting factors that impact asthma management.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system lies in robust primary care. Safford, Arizona, serves as a benchmark for comparison. Assessing primary care availability involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. Ideally, a lower ratio indicates a greater capacity for individual patient care. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) provides valuable insights into the number of primary care physicians per capita. A critical aspect is the distribution of these physicians; are they concentrated in specific areas, or are they evenly spread throughout the city? Furthermore, the types of primary care practices – whether they are solo practices, group practices, or part of larger healthcare systems – influence accessibility. Larger systems often offer extended hours and a broader range of services, potentially improving access.

In contrast, analyzing ZIP code 36773 necessitates a different perspective. The focus shifts to identifying physicians practicing within the area and evaluating their capacity to manage asthma. This includes determining the number of board-certified pulmonologists and allergists. While primary care physicians can manage asthma, specialists often provide more advanced care for complex cases. The presence of these specialists significantly impacts the "Asthma Score." Data from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, combined with information from insurance provider directories, allows for identifying physicians practicing within the ZIP code.

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the practices' operational models. This includes reviewing patient reviews, assessing the availability of asthma education programs, and evaluating the integration of evidence-based asthma management guidelines. Practices that actively promote patient education, provide personalized asthma action plans, and offer regular follow-up appointments are likely to score higher. The availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, is another crucial factor. Practices equipped with these tools can provide more comprehensive asthma assessments.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine enables remote consultations, medication management, and patient education. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially for follow-up appointments and routine asthma check-ups, improve accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living far from the practice. The adoption rate of telemedicine within both Safford and ZIP code 36773 should be carefully assessed. This involves determining the number of practices offering telehealth services and the types of services available.

The link between asthma and mental health is undeniable. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the healthcare ecosystem is a crucial component of the "Asthma Score." This includes assessing whether primary care practices and specialist offices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Collaboration between pulmonologists, allergists, and mental health providers ensures comprehensive care.

For Safford, the analysis should explore the presence of mental health clinics, therapists, and psychiatrists. In ZIP code 36773, the same evaluation is crucial, considering the potentially limited resources in a smaller community. The availability of support groups and educational programs related to asthma and mental health further enhances the score.

The "Asthma Score" is not a static metric; it's a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are crucial to account for changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. The data collection and analysis process should adhere to ethical guidelines, respecting patient privacy and confidentiality.

To further enhance this analysis, consider the specific needs of the population. Factors such as the prevalence of asthma within the community, socioeconomic factors impacting access to care, and the cultural sensitivity of healthcare providers should be considered. The analysis should also address potential disparities in care, ensuring that all residents, regardless of their background, have equal access to quality asthma management.

The final "Asthma Score" for each location should be presented in a clear and concise manner. This could involve assigning a numerical score or using a rating system based on the factors discussed above. The score should be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used and the rationale behind the scoring system. The analysis should conclude with actionable recommendations, such as suggestions for improving physician-to-patient ratios, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health resources.

This comprehensive "Asthma Score" analysis is a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients. It provides a data-driven assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in asthma management. It informs decision-making and helps to improve the quality of care for individuals living with asthma.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and gain deeper insights into the factors influencing the "Asthma Score," explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps.