40070, Sulphur, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 40070, Sulphur, Kentucky is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.56 percent of the residents in 40070 has some form of health insurance. 34.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.63 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 40070 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 92 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40070. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 48 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 875 health care providers accessible to residents in 40070, Sulphur, Kentucky.

The following analysis assesses asthma care within the ZIP code 40070, specifically focusing on primary care availability in Sulphur, Kentucky. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all crucial factors in managing asthma effectively.

The foundation of asthma care rests upon accessible primary care. Sulphur, as the primary population center within 40070, requires a robust primary care infrastructure to serve its residents. Assessing primary care availability involves understanding the number of practicing physicians, the size of their patient panels, and the ease with which new patients can secure appointments. A low physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access, allowing doctors more time to dedicate to each patient, including those with chronic conditions like asthma. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, rushed appointments, and potentially inadequate management of asthma symptoms and exacerbations.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in 40070 demands a detailed investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code. Combining this data with local population figures allows for the calculation of the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, however, is only one piece of the puzzle. The types of insurance accepted by each practice, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, and the practice's overall patient volume all contribute to the accessibility of care.

Identifying standout practices within 40070 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes examining patient reviews, analyzing performance metrics (where available), and considering factors like the practice's commitment to asthma education and patient self-management. Practices that proactively offer asthma education programs, provide detailed asthma action plans, and routinely assess patients' asthma control are likely to be considered standout performers. Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable travel distance significantly enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within 40070 can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telemedicine, and the ease with which patients can access and utilize these services. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to providing convenient and accessible care.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and conversely, the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within 40070 is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. This includes the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, who are accepting new patients and are either in the same practice or in close proximity to primary care providers. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their asthma management protocols demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

Evaluating the specific practices within 40070 requires a deeper dive. Researching individual practices, their staffing, their services, and their patient satisfaction scores is essential. This includes searching online directories, reviewing patient testimonials, and, if possible, contacting the practices directly to inquire about their services and appointment availability. The goal is to identify practices that are well-equipped to manage asthma effectively, providing comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and mental health needs of their patients.

The assessment of primary care availability in Sulphur, Kentucky, requires a detailed understanding of the local healthcare landscape. This involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the accessibility of mental health resources. Practices that excel in these areas are better positioned to provide high-quality asthma care, improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of 40070.

The analysis of asthma care in 40070 highlights the importance of a well-coordinated healthcare system. Factors such as physician density, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support all contribute to the effectiveness of asthma management. The goal is to ensure that patients have timely access to high-quality care, empowering them to manage their condition effectively and live fulfilling lives.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 40070 and beyond, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, pharmacies, and mental health providers. CartoChrome maps can be an invaluable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare professionals assessing community needs, and policymakers developing strategies to improve access to care.