06040, Manchester, Connecticut Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 06040, Manchester, Connecticut is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.21 percent of the residents in 06040 has some form of health insurance. 41.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.51 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 06040 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,006 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06040. An estimate of 15 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,503 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,575 health care providers accessible to residents in 06040, Manchester, Connecticut.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Manchester, CT (ZIP Code 06040)

This analysis delves into the asthma care landscape within Manchester, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06040), evaluating the accessibility and quality of care for asthma sufferers. We examine key factors, including physician availability, practice performance, telemedicine integration, and the integration of mental health resources, to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment. This score, though not a numerical value in this format, reflects a qualitative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in Manchester concerning asthma management.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Manchester, like many communities, faces the ongoing challenge of physician-to-patient ratios. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend points to a potential strain on resources. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less comprehensive approach to asthma management. This is particularly concerning given the chronic nature of asthma, which demands consistent monitoring and proactive intervention.

Within Manchester, the presence of established primary care practices is a positive factor. Practices with a long-standing presence in the community often develop a deeper understanding of their patients’ needs and a familiarity with local resources. The reputation of these practices, particularly regarding their asthma management protocols, is crucial. We must consider their adherence to national guidelines for asthma care, including the use of standardized asthma action plans, regular spirometry testing, and patient education on triggers and medication management. Practices demonstrating a commitment to these best practices would receive a higher score in this assessment.

Telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care accessibility, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Manchester is a critical aspect of this analysis. Practices offering virtual consultations for medication refills, symptom monitoring, and follow-up appointments can significantly enhance patient convenience and potentially reduce the frequency of emergency room visits. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management.

Asthma is not solely a physical condition; it frequently impacts mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms and hindering treatment adherence. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into asthma care is paramount. The availability of on-site mental health professionals within primary care practices, or readily accessible referrals to specialists, is a crucial component of a high "Asthma Score." Practices that recognize the interconnectedness of physical and mental health and actively address these issues demonstrate a more holistic and patient-centered approach.

The quality of asthma care also depends on the availability of specialized resources within the community. This includes access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and asthma educators. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices, and the ease with which patients can be referred to them, is an essential factor. The presence of support groups and educational programs for asthma patients and their families further contributes to a positive care environment.

Furthermore, the assessment must consider the availability of emergency services and the responsiveness of local hospitals to asthma-related emergencies. The efficiency of the emergency room in treating asthma exacerbations, including the timely administration of medications and the provision of appropriate follow-up care, is a vital aspect of the "Asthma Score."

Beyond individual practices, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Manchester plays a role. This includes the availability of pharmacies with a sufficient supply of asthma medications and the presence of community health initiatives aimed at asthma prevention and education. The involvement of local health departments in asthma awareness campaigns and the promotion of healthy environments contribute to a more supportive community for asthma sufferers.

The "Asthma Score" for Manchester, CT (06040) is not a single, definitive number. Instead, it is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. The presence of well-established primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care all contribute to a higher score. Conversely, challenges such as high physician-to-patient ratios, limited access to specialists, and a lack of community resources would negatively impact the score.

To improve the "Asthma Score" in Manchester, concerted efforts are needed. This includes initiatives to recruit and retain primary care physicians, expand telemedicine capabilities, integrate mental health services into primary care practices, and promote community-based asthma education and support programs.

For a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Manchester and to identify areas of strength and weakness in asthma care, explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of physician locations, practice demographics, and access to resources.