41240, Paintsville, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 41240, Paintsville, Kentucky is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.47 percent of the residents in 41240 has some form of health insurance. 53.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.29 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 41240 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,332 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41240. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,504 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 692 health care providers accessible to residents in 41240, Paintsville, Kentucky.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Paintsville, KY (ZIP Code 41240)**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to the accessibility and quality of its healthcare resources. In Paintsville, Kentucky (ZIP code 41240), understanding the landscape of primary care, especially regarding the management of chronic conditions like asthma, is crucial. This analysis delves into the availability of physicians, the practices they employ, and the resources available to patients, culminating in an "Asthma Score" assessment.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in readily available primary care. This includes not only the presence of physicians but also the ability to secure timely appointments, receive comprehensive assessments, and engage in ongoing management plans. A key metric in this evaluation is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, the ratio in Paintsville and surrounding areas is likely a point of concern. Rural communities often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, leading to a potential shortage of primary care providers. This shortage can translate to longer wait times for appointments, increased pressure on existing physicians, and potentially compromised patient care.

The "Asthma Score" will consider several factors. First, the density of primary care physicians, including family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatricians, will be evaluated. Second, the accessibility of those physicians, considering appointment wait times, after-hours care availability, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Third, the utilization of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and telemedicine, which can improve efficiency and patient access. Fourth, the integration of mental health resources, as asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, and finally, the availability of asthma-specific educational programs and support groups.

Several practices within the 41240 ZIP code are likely to be key players in asthma management. The reputations of these practices, based on patient reviews and physician expertise, will be factored into the assessment. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, personalized care plans, and proactive asthma management strategies will receive higher scores. The presence of certified asthma educators, nurses trained in asthma management, and dedicated respiratory therapists will be considered positive indicators.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments. Practices that offer telemedicine services, particularly for asthma management, will receive higher scores. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine with the practice's EHR system will also be evaluated.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling services, or provide resources for patients struggling with mental health issues will be recognized for their commitment to holistic patient care.

The "Asthma Score" will also assess the availability of asthma-specific educational programs. These programs, whether offered by the practice itself or through collaborations with community organizations, can empower patients to better manage their condition. The content of these programs, including education on medication usage, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans, will be evaluated. The frequency and accessibility of these programs, as well as the availability of support groups, will be considered.

The assessment will also consider the use of technology to enhance asthma management. EHR systems that allow physicians to track patient symptoms, medication adherence, and lung function tests are essential. Practices that utilize these technologies effectively will be recognized. The ability of patients to access their medical records online, communicate with their physicians electronically, and receive reminders for medication refills and appointments will also be considered.

The overall "Asthma Score" for the primary care landscape in Paintsville (41240) will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the available resources. A high score will indicate a robust primary care system with readily accessible physicians, advanced technology, a commitment to patient education, and integrated mental health support. A lower score will highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and enhancing mental health resources.

The "Asthma Score" is not merely a numerical ranking; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. It serves as a tool for identifying areas where resources can be allocated to improve asthma management and overall health outcomes. By understanding the current landscape, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members can work together to create a healthier Paintsville.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Paintsville, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for analyzing geographic data, identifying areas with limited access to care, and visualizing the distribution of healthcare resources.

**Call to Action:** Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in Paintsville and beyond.