The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 40873, Wallins Creek, Kentucky is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 97.89 percent of the residents in 40873 has some form of health insurance. 62.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.79 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 40873 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 706 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40873. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 346 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 315 health care providers accessible to residents in 40873, Wallins Creek, Kentucky.
Health Scores in 40873, Wallins Creek, Kentucky
Asthma Score | 27 |
---|---|
People Score | 38 |
Provider Score | 45 |
Hospital Score | 36 |
Travel Score | 40 |
40873 | Wallins Creek | Kentucky | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacts communities, particularly in areas with environmental challenges or limited access to healthcare. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians and related resources for managing asthma in Wallins Creek, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40873), evaluating the healthcare landscape through an “Asthma Score” lens. This score isn't a formal, standardized metric but rather a composite assessment based on factors crucial for effective asthma management.
The foundation of good asthma care is accessible primary care. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio within the 40873 ZIP code is paramount. The ideal ratio, of course, varies, but a higher number of patients per physician often translates to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the US Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to estimate this ratio, providing a baseline understanding of primary care capacity. Furthermore, it is important to investigate the distribution of these physicians within the area. Are they concentrated in one location, or are they spread out, making access easier for residents across Wallins Creek?
Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality of care provided is critical. This includes the availability of specialized asthma-related services, such as pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and access to asthma educators. Investigating the practices within the 40873 area reveals which ones stand out in terms of asthma management. Do they have dedicated asthma clinics? Do they actively participate in asthma education programs for patients and families? Are they recognized for their commitment to asthma control through adherence to national guidelines, like those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)?
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma, especially in rural areas where access to in-person care can be challenging. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Wallins Creek is crucial. Do physicians offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and asthma education? Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance patient adherence to treatment plans. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive asthma management.
Asthma is not just a physical ailment; it often has a significant impact on mental health. The stress of managing the condition, the limitations it imposes on daily activities, and the potential for exacerbations can contribute to anxiety and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is an integral part of the “Asthma Score.” Do primary care practices have on-site mental health professionals or established referral pathways to mental health services? Are there local mental health clinics or therapists who specialize in treating patients with chronic illnesses? Addressing the mental health needs of asthma patients is vital for their overall well-being and can contribute to better asthma control.
Another factor in the “Asthma Score” is the availability of pharmacies and the ease of access to asthma medications. Are there pharmacies within a reasonable distance of residents? Do these pharmacies stock a wide range of asthma medications, including both controller medications and rescue inhalers? The ability to quickly and easily obtain necessary medications is critical for preventing asthma exacerbations and managing symptoms.
The environmental factors in Wallins Creek also play a role in the “Asthma Score.” Air quality, exposure to allergens, and the prevalence of smoking within the community can all impact asthma control. Analyzing local air quality data, identifying potential allergen sources, and promoting smoking cessation programs are essential components of a comprehensive asthma management strategy. Public health initiatives that address these environmental factors can significantly improve the health of asthma patients.
The “Asthma Score” for Wallins Creek (ZIP Code 40873) is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that can change over time as healthcare resources evolve and community needs shift. Regular monitoring of the factors discussed above is essential to ensure that asthma patients in the area receive the best possible care. This includes tracking physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the adoption of telemedicine, assessing the availability of mental health resources, and monitoring environmental factors.
In evaluating the practices within the area, it is important to note that some practices may stand out due to their commitment to patient care. These practices may have dedicated asthma clinics, asthma educators, and a strong focus on patient education. They may also have adopted telemedicine and integrated mental health services into their care models. These practices serve as models for other practices in the area.
In conclusion, the effective management of asthma in Wallins Creek requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates accessible primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and a focus on environmental factors. By comprehensively evaluating these factors, we can build a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.
To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wallins Creek and the surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help visualize the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities for asthma management in the community.
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