40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.75 percent of the residents in 40047 has some form of health insurance. 29.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.69 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 40047 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,736 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40047. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,195 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,333 health care providers accessible to residents in 40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians, Primary Care, and Resources in Mount Washington, KY (ZIP Code 40047)

Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and the resources available to manage asthma within Mount Washington, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40047) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, assesses telemedicine adoption, and examines the availability of mental health resources, all factors critical to providing effective asthma care. The goal is to understand the landscape of care, pinpoint potential strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, evaluate the community's capacity to support individuals living with this chronic respiratory condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnosis or treatment. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, when combined, can provide an estimate of this ratio. However, this data alone provides an incomplete picture. The distribution of physicians within the ZIP code, their specialties, and their acceptance of new patients all play a crucial role. A general practitioner might be readily available, but a pulmonologist specializing in asthma care could be scarce, requiring patients to travel outside of the immediate area for specialized treatment.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond the raw numbers. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management often implement best practices. This can include adherence to national guidelines for asthma treatment, comprehensive patient education programs, and the availability of asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs. Furthermore, practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments for urgent needs demonstrate a patient-centered approach. These practices, through their proactive and accessible care, can significantly improve asthma control and reduce the frequency of exacerbations. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians in Mount Washington can significantly impact asthma management. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living far from medical facilities, or those needing frequent follow-up appointments. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine in managing asthma. However, the success of telemedicine hinges on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the physician's ability to effectively conduct virtual examinations.

The often-overlooked connection between asthma and mental health is a critical aspect of comprehensive care. Chronic illnesses like asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Conversely, mental health issues can exacerbate asthma symptoms and make it more difficult for patients to adhere to their treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a vital component of effective asthma management. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who can provide counseling and support. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health services, ensuring that patients receive the holistic care they need. The integration of mental health screenings into routine asthma care can also help identify and address mental health concerns early on.

To assess the overall "Asthma Score" for Mount Washington, we must consider the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available specialized care (such as pulmonology), widespread telemedicine adoption, robust mental health resources, and practices committed to asthma management best practices. Conversely, a low score would reflect a community facing challenges in these areas, potentially leading to poorer asthma control, increased hospitalizations, and a lower quality of life for individuals living with asthma. The exact score is difficult to calculate without access to real-time, granular data. However, an informed analysis based on the above factors provides a valuable framework for understanding the current state of asthma care in the community.

The analysis reveals that while the availability of primary care physicians in Mount Washington may appear adequate based on general population data, the specific needs of asthma patients require a more nuanced evaluation. The presence of pulmonologists and allergists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are critical factors in determining the quality of asthma care. Further investigation into individual practice protocols, patient experiences, and the availability of specialized services is essential for a comprehensive assessment. Ongoing monitoring of these factors is crucial to ensure that the community has the resources and support necessary to effectively manage asthma and improve the health and well-being of its residents.

The information provided here offers a starting point for a more in-depth investigation. To gain a more granular understanding of physician locations, specialty availability, and other relevant data, consider utilizing the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offer a visual and interactive platform for exploring healthcare data, allowing you to identify patterns, pinpoint areas of need, and make data-driven decisions to improve healthcare access and outcomes in Mount Washington and beyond. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps and unlock a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.