41553, Phelps, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 41553, Phelps, Kentucky is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.32 percent of the residents in 41553 has some form of health insurance. 72.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.85 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 41553 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 717 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41553. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 508 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 243 health care providers accessible to residents in 41553, Phelps, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 41553 and Phelps Primary Care

Analyzing asthma care within ZIP Code 41553 and the broader context of primary care availability in Phelps County requires a multifaceted approach. An "Asthma Score" is a hypothetical construct, a composite measure reflecting various factors impacting asthma management and patient outcomes. This analysis aims to provide an informed perspective, acknowledging the limitations of data accessibility and the inherent complexities of healthcare delivery in a rural setting.

The foundation of a strong Asthma Score rests on access to qualified medical professionals. In ZIP Code 41553, which likely represents a specific geographic area within Phelps County, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights into physician density. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely care. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased reliance on emergency room visits for asthma exacerbations, and ultimately, a lower Asthma Score.

Within this context, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for asthma management, providing diagnoses, prescribing medications, and coordinating specialist referrals. The presence of a robust primary care network in Phelps County, even if not directly within 41553, is crucial. Examining the number of PCPs per population, the geographic distribution of their practices, and their acceptance of new patients are vital components of the analysis. Furthermore, the ability of these PCPs to provide comprehensive asthma care, including spirometry testing and patient education, directly impacts the Asthma Score.

Beyond physician density, the quality of care provided by individual practices significantly influences the Asthma Score. Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating several factors. This includes the practice's adherence to national asthma guidelines, the availability of asthma educators, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing clear instructions on medication use, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans, tend to achieve better patient outcomes. Investigating patient satisfaction scores, if available, can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in assessing the Asthma Score, particularly in a rural setting like Phelps County. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and ongoing care without requiring lengthy travel. Practices that embrace telemedicine for asthma management, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication refills, can significantly improve patient access and adherence to treatment plans. Analyzing the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and patient utilization rates are essential components of the analysis.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a significant role in asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that impacts a patient's quality of life and can contribute to anxiety and depression. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals to external providers, is a critical factor in improving the Asthma Score. Access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who are familiar with the psychological aspects of chronic illness can help patients manage their asthma more effectively.

Specifics are vital. For instance, instead of simply stating "several practices" offer telemedicine, the analysis should identify specific practices that utilize telehealth platforms, describe the types of virtual services provided (e.g., medication refills, follow-up appointments, specialist consultations), and provide patient utilization rates if available. Similarly, instead of saying "some doctors" are accepting new patients, the analysis should name specific doctors who are accepting new patients and their appointment wait times.

Furthermore, the analysis should delve into the specific medications available within the area. Are the necessary inhalers and medications readily accessible at local pharmacies? Are there any barriers to medication access, such as high costs or insurance limitations? Addressing these practical considerations is essential for a comprehensive Asthma Score assessment.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact asthma outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and substandard housing conditions can all exacerbate asthma symptoms. Identifying the prevalence of these factors within ZIP Code 41553 and Phelps County and assessing the availability of social services to address these issues are important components of the overall assessment.

Finally, the analysis must consider the role of community resources. Are there local support groups for asthma patients? Are there educational programs offered to help patients manage their condition? The presence of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and contribute to a higher Asthma Score.

In conclusion, assessing the Asthma Score for ZIP Code 41553 and the primary care landscape in Phelps County requires a detailed examination of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, medication access, socioeconomic factors, and community support. A comprehensive analysis will provide a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the current asthma care system and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the geographic distribution of physicians, primary care availability, and other relevant factors, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and identify patterns that might not be apparent from textual analysis alone.