40965, Middlesboro, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 40965, Middlesboro, Kentucky is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.17 percent of the residents in 40965 has some form of health insurance. 72.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.13 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 40965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,812 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40965. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,138 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 552 health care providers accessible to residents in 40965, Middlesboro, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Middlesboro, KY (ZIP Code 40965)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Middlesboro, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40965), requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when assessing asthma care. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the specific resources available for asthma management, and the overall accessibility of care within the community. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial for effective asthma management.

The foundation of any strong asthma care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Middlesboro, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can significantly impede access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of asthma. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions and increasing the risk of asthma exacerbations. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 40965 is essential, ideally obtained from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure or similar sources, to accurately gauge the accessibility of primary care. Without this specific data, an accurate score is impossible.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also vital. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single location, or are they dispersed throughout the community, making access easier for residents in different areas? Geographic accessibility is especially important for individuals with asthma, who may experience difficulty traveling during an asthma attack. The presence of practices that accept Medicaid and other forms of public insurance is equally crucial, ensuring that low-income individuals and families have access to care.

Within the primary care setting, the specific expertise of physicians in asthma management is another key consideration. Are PCPs well-versed in the latest guidelines for asthma treatment, including the use of inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists, and other medications? Do they have experience in educating patients about asthma triggers, proper inhaler technique, and the importance of adherence to treatment plans? The presence of certified asthma educators within primary care practices significantly enhances the quality of care.

Standout practices in Middlesboro, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. This includes practices that offer:

* **Dedicated Asthma Clinics:** Clinics specifically designed for asthma management, providing specialized expertise and resources.
* **Comprehensive Patient Education:** Practices that prioritize patient education, providing individualized instruction on asthma management techniques.
* **Regular Asthma Action Plans:** Practices that consistently develop and update personalized asthma action plans for their patients.
* **Proactive Asthma Management:** Practices that proactively monitor patients' asthma control and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant in healthcare, and its impact on asthma care should be evaluated. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling. The availability of telehealth consultations with PCPs or specialists can enable remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, medication adjustments, and patient education. The extent of telemedicine adoption among practices in 40965 should be assessed, including the types of telehealth services offered and the patient population served.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, and these mental health conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive asthma care system. This includes access to:

* **Mental Health Professionals:** Therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can provide support and treatment for mental health conditions.
* **Integrated Care:** Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care or asthma care programs.
* **Support Groups:** Local support groups for individuals with asthma and their families.

The presence and accessibility of these resources should be evaluated when assessing the overall quality of asthma care in Middlesboro. The integration of mental health services into asthma management can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, should be considered. While PCPs often manage asthma, referrals to specialists may be necessary for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity of specialists, their acceptance of insurance, and their wait times for appointments are all factors that impact access to specialized care. The presence of emergency room facilities equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is also essential, ensuring that patients have access to immediate medical attention when needed.

In conclusion, creating an accurate "Asthma Score" for Middlesboro, KY (40965) requires a detailed investigation into several key areas. This includes assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluating the distribution of PCPs, examining the expertise of physicians in asthma management, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. The availability of specialized care and emergency room facilities also significantly impacts the overall quality of asthma care. Without specific data on these factors, a precise score cannot be determined. However, the factors outlined above provide a framework for a comprehensive assessment.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Middlesboro, including physician locations, access to specialists, and the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data discussed above, helping to identify areas of strength and weakness in the asthma care system.