42134, Franklin, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 42134, Franklin, Kentucky is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 42134 has some form of health insurance. 43.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.26 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 42134 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,661 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42134. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,064 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,761 health care providers accessible to residents in 42134, Franklin, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Franklin, KY (ZIP Code 42134)

This analysis assesses the quality of asthma care and primary care accessibility in Franklin, Kentucky (ZIP code 42134). It considers factors crucial to asthma management, including physician availability, resource utilization, and the integration of mental health support, ultimately providing an "Asthma Score" assessment. This score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation based on the following criteria.

**Primary Care Landscape and Physician Availability**

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. Franklin, a smaller city, presents unique challenges and opportunities in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, combined with population estimates for 42134, provide a preliminary understanding. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally indicating a higher concentration of doctors, is a positive indicator. However, this raw number alone is insufficient.

The distribution of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the zip code is also crucial. Are PCPs clustered in one area, potentially creating access barriers for residents in other parts of Franklin? This spatial analysis requires a detailed examination of practice locations. Furthermore, the types of PCPs available – family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatricians – impact the care pathways for different age groups. Pediatric asthma management, for example, necessitates specialized knowledge and resources.

**Asthma-Specific Expertise and Standout Practices**

Beyond general primary care, the availability of specialists and practices with a demonstrated focus on asthma care significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Identifying pulmonologists, allergists, and practices actively promoting asthma education and management programs is essential. These practices often employ certified asthma educators, offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing, and implement patient-centered care plans.

Standout practices are those that consistently demonstrate excellence in asthma care. This includes practices that have a proven track record of successful asthma control, evidenced by patient outcomes data (if available), and actively engage in community outreach and education. Examining patient reviews, testimonials, and practice accreditations, such as those from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), can help identify these high-performing practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technology Integration**

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in modern healthcare, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers increased access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically underserved areas. In the context of asthma, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms.

The Asthma Score considers the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms. Do they offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and asthma education? Do they employ remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters or pulse oximeters, to track patient health remotely? The integration of technology streamlines care and empowers patients to actively manage their condition.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration**

Asthma, like many chronic illnesses, can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common comorbidities in asthma patients. Therefore, the availability and integration of mental health resources are crucial for comprehensive asthma care.

The Asthma Score assesses the extent to which local practices address the mental health needs of their patients. Do they screen for mental health conditions? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, such as therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors? Do they offer on-site mental health services or collaborate with mental health providers in the community? The integration of mental health support is a cornerstone of holistic asthma management.

**Medication Availability and Affordability**

Access to necessary medications is paramount for asthma control. The Asthma Score considers the availability of essential asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and controller medications. Are these medications readily available at local pharmacies? Are there programs or resources to assist patients with medication affordability, such as patient assistance programs or partnerships with local pharmacies?

The cost of asthma medications can be a significant barrier to care, especially for individuals with limited financial resources. The Asthma Score evaluates the presence of programs that help patients access affordable medications, ensuring that financial constraints do not compromise their ability to manage their asthma effectively.

**Community Resources and Support Groups**

Beyond clinical care, community resources play a vital role in supporting asthma patients. The Asthma Score assesses the availability of asthma support groups, educational programs, and community health initiatives. Are there local organizations that provide asthma education, advocacy, and support services? Are there opportunities for patients to connect with others living with asthma and share experiences?

Community resources empower patients to become active participants in their care, providing them with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to manage their condition effectively.

**Overall Asthma Score and Conclusion**

The final Asthma Score for Franklin, KY (42134) is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. It considers the availability and accessibility of primary care, the presence of asthma-specific expertise, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, medication affordability, and community support.

Based on this analysis, a comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape in Franklin, KY, can be achieved. This allows for identification of strengths and weaknesses, and the development of strategies to improve asthma care for residents.

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