41563, Shelby Gap, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 41563, Shelby Gap, Kentucky is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.59 percent of the residents in 41563 has some form of health insurance. 71.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.68 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 41563 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 81 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41563. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 59 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 132 health care providers accessible to residents in 41563, Shelby Gap, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Shelby Gap, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41563)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Shelby Gap, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41563) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care provided, the integration of technology, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis will endeavor to construct an “Asthma Score” based on these key factors, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare environment for asthma sufferers in this specific area.

The foundation of any effective asthma management strategy rests on readily available primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, compromised care. In Shelby Gap, this ratio needs careful investigation. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights into the number of primary care physicians serving the area and the estimated population they serve. This data, coupled with information from local hospitals and clinics, will help determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A concerningly high ratio would negatively impact the Asthma Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the expertise of physicians in asthma management, the availability of specialized equipment for diagnosis and treatment (like spirometry), and the adherence to established asthma guidelines. Assessing this requires a deeper dive. Reviewing online physician profiles, patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and potentially reaching out to local healthcare providers to inquire about their asthma management protocols can offer valuable insights. The Asthma Score would be positively influenced by practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care and patient education.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in asthma care. Factors to consider include: the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress and facilitate communication, the provision of patient education materials, and the availability of asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs. Practices that proactively engage patients in their care, offering regular follow-up appointments and encouraging self-management strategies, would significantly enhance the Asthma Score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element in modern healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in Shelby Gap is crucial. Does the area offer options for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online access to patient portals? The more widespread the adoption of telemedicine, the higher the Asthma Score. This is particularly important for patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments.

Mental health resources play a significant, often overlooked, role in asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is therefore crucial. This includes assessing the accessibility of these services, whether they accept insurance, and if they have experience working with patients who have chronic respiratory conditions. A community that integrates mental health support into its asthma care strategy would receive a substantial boost to its Asthma Score.

Further, the Asthma Score must consider the availability of resources beyond direct medical care. Access to pharmacies with readily available asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and controller medications, is fundamental. The affordability of these medications, considering insurance coverage and the availability of patient assistance programs, is also a critical factor. Furthermore, the presence of community support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing asthma triggers (like allergens) would contribute to a higher score.

In conclusion, constructing a comprehensive Asthma Score for Shelby Gap (ZIP Code 41563) necessitates a thorough investigation into the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and access to supporting services. This analysis would involve gathering data from various sources, including public health agencies, local healthcare providers, and patient feedback. The final score would reflect the overall capacity of the community to provide effective and comprehensive asthma care.

To visualize and understand the healthcare landscape in Shelby Gap and the surrounding areas, including the distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the impact of social determinants of health on asthma prevalence, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in improving asthma care in this community.