06365, Preston, Connecticut Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 06365, Preston, Connecticut is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.42 percent of the residents in 06365 has some form of health insurance. 33.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.43 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 06365 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 981 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06365. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 895 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,853 health care providers accessible to residents in 06365, Preston, Connecticut.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Preston, CT (ZIP Code 06365)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Preston, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06365) requires a nuanced approach, particularly when assessing asthma care. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score," a composite measure reflecting the quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of asthma-related healthcare services within the community. This score considers factors such as physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective asthma management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Preston is a critical starting point. Determining the precise ratio necessitates data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists (e.g., pulmonologists, allergists) actively practicing within the ZIP code, alongside the estimated population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can present challenges in timely access to care, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing the risk of hospitalizations. While publicly available data sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide initial figures, these often require refinement to reflect active practices and patient demographics accurately.

Primary care availability is another significant factor. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnoses, medication management, and ongoing monitoring. The availability of PCPs accepting new patients, particularly those with Medicaid or other insurance plans common in the area, directly impacts access to care. Practices with longer wait times for appointments, limited evening or weekend hours, or inadequate staffing levels can hinder effective asthma management. Furthermore, the presence of specialized asthma clinics or allergy practices within or near Preston significantly enhances the Asthma Score. These specialists offer advanced diagnostic tools, specialized treatments, and expertise in managing complex asthma cases.

Several practices within the 06365 ZIP code likely demonstrate varying levels of effectiveness in asthma care. Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating factors beyond simple physician availability. This includes assessing their commitment to evidence-based asthma guidelines, patient education programs, and the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved care coordination. Practices that actively engage patients in self-management strategies, provide written asthma action plans, and offer regular follow-up appointments typically achieve better patient outcomes. Reviews from patients, though subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction with care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and patient education, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and potentially preventing exacerbations. The availability of telemedicine services can positively impact the Asthma Score, reflecting a practice's commitment to patient convenience and proactive care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they play a crucial role. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health screening, counseling, and referrals into their asthma care programs demonstrate a more holistic approach. Collaboration with mental health professionals, access to support groups, and educational resources on managing the psychological aspects of asthma can significantly improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. The availability and integration of these resources directly contribute to a higher Asthma Score.

Evaluating the infrastructure supporting asthma care is also essential. This includes the availability of diagnostic equipment like spirometers, the presence of on-site pharmacies for convenient medication access, and the accessibility of emergency services. The proximity of hospitals equipped to handle asthma exacerbations, particularly those with pediatric emergency departments, is a critical factor, especially considering the potential for severe asthma attacks. The presence of community resources, such as asthma support groups, educational programs, and environmental health initiatives, further strengthens the Asthma Score, demonstrating a community-wide commitment to asthma management.

Determining the final Asthma Score requires a weighted assessment of all these factors. Each category, from physician-to-patient ratios to mental health integration, should be assigned a weight reflecting its relative importance in achieving optimal asthma care. The scores within each category are then combined to produce an overall score, providing a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Preston, CT. This score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, guiding efforts to improve asthma care within the community.

The final Asthma Score, however, is only as good as the data used to generate it. Accurate and up-to-date information is crucial for a meaningful assessment. The dynamic nature of healthcare, with physician turnover, practice changes, and evolving technologies, necessitates continuous monitoring and updates to maintain the accuracy of the score.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Preston, CT, and visualize the distribution of resources and access points, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for detailed geographic analysis, offering valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare services, including those related to asthma management.