06480, Portland, Connecticut Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 06480, Portland, Connecticut is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.36 percent of the residents in 06480 has some form of health insurance. 28.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.34 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 06480 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,324 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06480. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,545 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,580 health care providers accessible to residents in 06480, Portland, Connecticut.

## Asthma Score Analysis: 06480 Doctors & Portland Primary Care

This analysis evaluates the quality of asthma care available to residents of ZIP Code 06480 (Wallingford, Connecticut) and assesses primary care accessibility in Portland, Oregon, focusing on factors impacting asthma management. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive asthma care.

**06480: Wallingford, Connecticut - Doctor Landscape**

Wallingford, Connecticut, presents a specific challenge when assessing asthma care. The town's relatively small size and suburban character necessitate a focused approach. A key metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, Wallingford's access to primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists and allergists, will significantly impact the quality of asthma care. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists, can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and specialized treatment.

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. Practices demonstrating a commitment to asthma management often implement structured asthma action plans, educate patients on triggers and medication adherence, and offer regular follow-up appointments. They may also participate in quality improvement initiatives related to asthma care. Practices that actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient outcomes and share information with specialists are particularly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect. Practices offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring tools can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited specialist availability. Telemedicine can facilitate medication adjustments, symptom management discussions, and educational sessions, thereby enhancing asthma control.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their asthma care protocols demonstrate a more holistic approach. Collaboration with mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for addressing the psychological impact of asthma.

**Portland, Oregon: Primary Care Availability**

Portland, Oregon, a city with a significant population, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities regarding primary care accessibility. The sheer size of the city necessitates a broader perspective, focusing on geographic distribution, insurance coverage, and wait times for appointments. Primary care availability is directly linked to asthma care quality, as primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnoses, treatment plans, and ongoing management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Portland varies significantly across different neighborhoods. Areas with a higher concentration of primary care physicians generally offer better access to care. However, factors such as insurance coverage (e.g., Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance) and the acceptance of new patients by specific practices can further complicate access.

Evaluating standout primary care practices in Portland requires considering their commitment to patient-centered care. This includes factors such as appointment availability, communication responsiveness, and the use of patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with providers. Practices that prioritize preventive care, including asthma education and trigger avoidance strategies, are particularly valuable.

Telemedicine's role in Portland's primary care landscape is crucial. Given the city's size and potential for traffic congestion, virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. Practices that offer telehealth services, including remote monitoring for asthma symptoms, can enhance patient convenience and improve asthma control.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care is equally important in Portland. The city's diverse population and potential for socioeconomic disparities necessitate a focus on mental health support. Practices that offer mental health screening, counseling services, or referrals to mental health specialists can improve the overall well-being of asthma patients.

**Comparative Analysis and Conclusion**

Both Wallingford and Portland require a multifaceted approach to address asthma care needs. In Wallingford, the focus is on ensuring adequate specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources within existing practices. In Portland, the challenge lies in addressing geographic disparities in primary care availability, promoting telemedicine, and integrating mental health services across a larger, more diverse population.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that all asthma patients have access to high-quality, comprehensive care that addresses their physical and mental health needs. This requires a collaborative effort involving physicians, patients, healthcare systems, and policymakers.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of access to care and identifying areas where improvements are needed. Use CartoChrome to gain valuable insights and contribute to improving asthma care in your community.