36916, Pennington, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36916, Pennington, Alabama is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.68 percent of the residents in 36916 has some form of health insurance. 55.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.68 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 36916 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36916. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 134 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 27 health care providers accessible to residents in 36916, Pennington, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 36916 & Primary Care in Pennington

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 36916, specifically focusing on asthma management and primary care availability in the broader Pennington area, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" ranking, considering physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support – all crucial elements for effective asthma care. The score, though not a precise numerical value, will offer a comparative assessment of the resources available to patients in this region.

Pennington, as a geographic area, provides the context for understanding the primary care landscape. The accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the foundation upon which effective asthma management is built. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for asthma diagnosis and treatment, coordinating care with specialists when needed. The availability of PCPs, therefore, directly impacts the quality and timeliness of asthma care within ZIP code 36916.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma interventions. Assessing this ratio within 36916 and the surrounding Pennington area is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical boards can be used to estimate the number of PCPs and pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases, including asthma) practicing within the area. This data, combined with population estimates, allows for the calculation of physician-to-patient ratios, providing a preliminary assessment of access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the practices themselves significantly influence the quality of asthma care. Several factors contribute to a practice's "Asthma Score." Does the practice offer comprehensive asthma education for patients and their families? Do they have established protocols for asthma management, including regular assessments of asthma control and personalized treatment plans? Are they equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, to accurately assess lung function? Practices that prioritize these elements will naturally receive a higher score.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 36916 and Pennington requires further investigation. This involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online ratings and reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and potentially contacting local healthcare advocacy groups or patient support organizations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive asthma management, and a strong track record of positive patient outcomes would be considered high-scoring.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the modern healthcare landscape, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased accessibility, reduced travel time, and the potential for more frequent monitoring of asthma symptoms. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma care model, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and medication management support, would receive a higher "Asthma Score." The availability of telehealth options is particularly important for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health resources, such as counseling or support groups, are better equipped to provide holistic care. Assessing the availability of these resources, either within the practice itself or through referrals to external providers, is a crucial component of the "Asthma Score" analysis.

The presence of mental health integration within primary care practices is increasingly viewed as best practice. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health professionals can lead to improved patient outcomes. Practices that have established referral pathways or integrated behavioral health specialists within their teams are likely to provide superior care for patients with comorbid conditions.

Data gathering for this analysis requires a multi-pronged approach. Publicly available data, as mentioned earlier, provides a starting point. However, a deeper dive requires accessing information from various sources. This could include contacting local hospitals and clinics, reviewing practice websites, and potentially conducting brief surveys of local healthcare providers.

It is also essential to consider the socioeconomic factors that influence asthma prevalence and management. Factors like poverty, housing conditions, and environmental exposures can significantly impact asthma outcomes. While this analysis focuses primarily on healthcare resources, acknowledging these broader social determinants of health is crucial for a complete understanding of the challenges faced by asthma patients in 36916 and Pennington.

This assessment is not a static evaluation. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. New practices open, existing practices adapt, and telemedicine technology continues to advance. Regular updates and re-evaluations are necessary to maintain an accurate "Asthma Score" ranking.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" analysis for ZIP code 36916 and primary care availability in Pennington highlights the complex interplay of factors that influence asthma management. Physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources are all critical elements. By carefully evaluating these factors, a more complete picture of the healthcare resources available to asthma patients in this region can be formed.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and other relevant data, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to interactively explore geographic data, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 36916 and Pennington.