41514, Belfry, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 41514, Belfry, Kentucky is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.63 percent of the residents in 41514 has some form of health insurance. 64.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.82 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 41514 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 503 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 18 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41514. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 586 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,900 health care providers accessible to residents in 41514, Belfry, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 41514 and Primary Care in Belfry

Analyzing healthcare accessibility, particularly for conditions like asthma, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Belfry, Kentucky, with a specific focus on the quality and accessibility of asthma care provided by doctors practicing within ZIP code 41514. We will consider factors impacting patient care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive asthma management strategy.

Belfry, a small community nestled within the Appalachian region, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. Rural areas often grapple with physician shortages, leading to higher patient-to-physician ratios. This means that each doctor in Belfry likely manages a larger patient load, potentially impacting the time available for detailed asthma assessments, education, and ongoing monitoring. The current ratio, if available, should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the severity of the potential access gap. The scarcity of PCPs can significantly delay diagnosis, treatment initiation, and consistent follow-up care, which are all vital for effective asthma control.

Within ZIP code 41514, a deeper investigation is needed to identify the specific doctors and practices offering asthma care. Are there any board-certified allergists or pulmonologists practicing within the area? The presence of specialists is a significant indicator of quality asthma care. These specialists possess advanced training and expertise in managing complex asthma cases, offering a higher level of care than general practitioners. The availability of specialized equipment, such as pulmonary function testing (PFT) devices, is also critical for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of asthma severity.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Do these practices prioritize patient education regarding asthma triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques? Do they offer structured asthma action plans, tailored to individual patient needs? Practices employing certified asthma educators, who provide specialized training and support to patients, often demonstrate superior asthma management outcomes. Furthermore, a review of patient testimonials and online reviews can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care provided.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve asthma care accessibility in rural areas like Belfry. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for routine follow-up appointments and medication adjustments. The availability of virtual asthma education sessions and remote monitoring tools, such as peak flow meters connected to smartphones, can empower patients to actively manage their condition. However, the success of telemedicine hinges on factors like reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the willingness of physicians to embrace virtual care models.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, and conversely, mental health challenges can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the 41514 ZIP code is an essential consideration. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, readily accessible to patients? Do primary care practices offer integrated behavioral health services? The presence of these resources is crucial for addressing the holistic needs of asthma patients, improving their overall well-being and asthma control.

Further analysis should explore the availability of after-hours care options. Asthma attacks can occur at any time, and access to prompt medical attention is crucial. Do practices offer extended hours, on-call services, or partnerships with urgent care clinics? The presence of readily available emergency care facilities within the community is also a critical factor.

The quality of asthma care is also influenced by the availability of prescription medications and the cost of care. Is there a pharmacy located within the 41514 ZIP code? Are generic medications readily available and affordable? The ability of patients to afford their medications and access necessary healthcare services directly impacts their ability to manage their asthma effectively.

Finally, a comprehensive asthma score analysis would consider the availability of community resources, such as support groups and educational programs. These resources can provide valuable support and information to patients and their families, empowering them to actively participate in their asthma management.

This analysis, while attempting to be comprehensive, is limited by the availability of public data. A full assessment would require detailed information about individual physician practices, patient demographics, and healthcare utilization patterns. However, by considering the factors outlined above, we can begin to understand the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care within ZIP code 41514 and the broader primary care landscape in Belfry. The ultimate goal is to identify areas for improvement and advocate for policies and programs that enhance access to high-quality asthma care for all residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Belfry and surrounding areas, including the location of physician practices, pharmacies, and other healthcare resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed, data-driven maps that can help you visualize healthcare access and identify potential gaps in care.