36904, Butler, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36904, Butler, Alabama is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.09 percent of the residents in 36904 has some form of health insurance. 40.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.00 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 36904 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 932 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36904. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 711 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 36904, Butler, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36904 & Primary Care Availability in Butler, Alabama

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 36904, a geographic area within Butler County, Alabama, and assesses the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources. The ultimate goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" ranking, reflecting the ease with which residents can access appropriate care for asthma management, including diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.

The foundation of this assessment rests on several key factors. Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of available physicians, can significantly impede access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability, potentially leading to shorter wait times and improved patient outcomes. Data on the number of PCPs practicing within ZIP Code 36904, and the estimated population served, forms the initial benchmark. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, and the US Census Bureau is essential for this calculation.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. The "Asthma Score" must consider the presence of specialists. While PCPs are the primary point of contact, access to pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists is crucial for patients with complex or poorly controlled asthma. Determining the proximity of these specialists to 36904 and the ability of patients to readily obtain referrals is a key aspect of the analysis.

Standout practices within the area will be identified. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. This might involve evaluating the use of evidence-based guidelines, the implementation of patient education programs, and the availability of asthma action plans. Information on patient satisfaction, as measured through surveys and online reviews, will also contribute to this evaluation. Identifying practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes will be a significant factor in the ranking.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial component of the “Asthma Score.” The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management via telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Butler County. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among PCPs and specialists in the area, as well as the accessibility of these services to patients, is a necessary step. This includes examining the availability of virtual asthma education programs and the use of remote monitoring devices to track lung function and symptoms.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they are inextricably linked. Asthma can be a chronic condition that impacts a patient's quality of life, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The “Asthma Score” will therefore evaluate the availability of mental health services within the area, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Furthermore, it will assess the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site therapists or referral pathways to mental health professionals.

The assessment of primary care availability in Butler, the county seat, necessitates a broader perspective. While ZIP Code 36904 is the focal point, the accessibility of PCPs throughout Butler County is important. This involves evaluating the distribution of PCPs across the county, transportation options for patients to reach these providers, and the availability of public transportation or ride-sharing services. The analysis will also assess the availability of after-hours care and urgent care facilities, which can be critical for managing asthma exacerbations.

Specific examples are important. For instance, if a particular practice in 36904 has implemented a comprehensive asthma education program, including personalized action plans and regular follow-up appointments, this would positively influence its score. Conversely, a practice with limited access to specialists or a lack of telemedicine options would receive a lower score. The analysis will also consider the availability of resources such as asthma support groups, educational materials, and community outreach programs.

The "Asthma Score" itself will be a composite metric, based on a weighted average of the factors described above. The weights assigned to each factor will reflect their relative importance in influencing asthma management and patient outcomes. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted at 20%, access to specialists at 25%, telemedicine adoption at 15%, mental health resources at 15%, and practice quality and patient satisfaction at 25%. This weighting system allows for a nuanced and comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare landscape in 36904.

The final “Asthma Score” will be presented as a ranking, providing a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare environment for asthma patients in the area. This ranking can be used by residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to inform strategies for improving asthma care. The analysis will also highlight any disparities in access to care, such as those related to socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity.

Finally, the “Asthma Score” analysis will not just be a static assessment. It will be an ongoing process, with regular updates and revisions to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new providers enter the area, telemedicine options expand, and mental health resources become more available, the "Asthma Score" will be updated to accurately reflect the current state of asthma care in ZIP Code 36904 and the surrounding areas.

To visualize and understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and their impact on asthma care in Butler County, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.