36908, Gilbertown, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36908, Gilbertown, Alabama is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.89 percent of the residents in 36908 has some form of health insurance. 50.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.68 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 36908 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 432 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36908. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 342 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 36908, Gilbertown, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Gilbertown, Alabama (ZIP Code 36908)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Gilbertown, Alabama (ZIP code 36908) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We will assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and investigate the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of asthma management. This analysis will culminate in an Asthma Score ranking for doctors in the area, providing a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients.

Gilbertown, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas, including physician shortages and limited access to specialized care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. National averages provide a benchmark. A low ratio suggests a potential strain on existing resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less time for comprehensive patient care. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, along with state-level medical boards, are essential for obtaining accurate physician counts within the ZIP code. Comparing this data to national averages allows for a preliminary assessment of access to care.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of asthma management. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the initial point of contact for asthma patients, providing diagnosis, treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. The number of PCPs actively practicing within 36908, their specialties (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine), and their acceptance of various insurance plans are vital factors. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can provide significant support to PCPs, also contributes to the overall accessibility of care. The geographic distribution of these providers within the ZIP code is another consideration; are they concentrated in one area, or are they spread out to serve a wider population?

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management. This could include practices that have implemented evidence-based asthma guidelines, offer patient education programs, or utilize advanced diagnostic tools. Reviews from patients, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the overall patient experience. Examining the practice's website and marketing materials can reveal their focus on asthma care, if any. Practices that actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives are likely to be more attuned to best practices.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in rural areas like Gilbertown. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and ongoing care without the need for lengthy travel. The availability of telehealth services among PCPs and specialists within 36908 is a key indicator. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education. The types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video conferencing, remote patient monitoring) and the ease of access to these services (e.g., technical support, insurance coverage) are crucial.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as integral to comprehensive asthma care. Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health services within Gilbertown is therefore a critical factor. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, is a positive indicator. The ability of patients to access mental health services, whether through insurance coverage or community resources, is crucial.

Synthesizing all of these factors allows for the creation of an Asthma Score for doctors in 36908. The score would be a composite measure, weighting each factor based on its importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, and the adoption of evidence-based asthma guidelines would likely receive higher weights. Practices with a high score would be those that demonstrate a strong commitment to asthma management, providing accessible, high-quality care that integrates mental health resources.

The Asthma Score would not be a static measure. It would need to be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the arrival of new physicians, the implementation of new telemedicine services, or changes in insurance coverage. The score would also need to be transparent, with the methodology and data sources clearly documented. This would allow patients to understand how the score was calculated and to make informed decisions about their care.

The primary goal is to empower patients with information. The Asthma Score should not be viewed as a definitive ranking, but rather as a tool to help patients navigate the healthcare system and identify practices that may be a good fit for their needs. It should be used in conjunction with other sources of information, such as personal recommendations from friends and family, and consultations with healthcare professionals.

Analyzing the data, considering the rural nature of Gilbertown, and the potential for resource limitations, the Asthma Score will likely reveal a healthcare landscape with both challenges and opportunities. The score will highlight the strengths of the existing providers while also identifying areas where improvements are needed. The ultimate aim is to improve the quality of asthma care in Gilbertown, ensuring that patients have access to the resources they need to manage their condition effectively and live healthy lives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Gilbertown, Alabama, and to understand the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.