42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.13 percent of the residents in 42140 has some form of health insurance. 63.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.74 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 42140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 351 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42140. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 199 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 168 health care providers accessible to residents in 42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky.

Analyzing asthma care within ZIP code 42140, encompassing Gamaliel, Kentucky, requires a multifaceted approach. This assessment, framed as an "Asthma Score" analysis, delves into several crucial aspects: physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, all factors impacting asthma management. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the resources available to patients in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental element of this analysis. Determining the precise number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists actively practicing within 42140 is the initial step. This data, ideally sourced from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and supplemented by information from local hospitals and clinics, provides a baseline understanding of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. Conversely, a higher ratio generally implies better access. However, simply counting physicians isn't enough.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialists. While PCPs are often the first point of contact, pulmonologists are critical for managing moderate to severe asthma. The presence or absence of a pulmonologist within the immediate area, or the distance patients must travel to access one, significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of other specialists, such as allergists, who can play a vital role in diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of local medical practices are crucial. The Asthma Score should evaluate factors such as the practices' acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, as these are often utilized by those most vulnerable to asthma complications. The availability of evening and weekend appointments, crucial for managing acute asthma exacerbations, is another key consideration. Practices with longer hours and flexible scheduling options score higher in this regard.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. These practices might offer asthma education classes, providing patients with the knowledge and skills to manage their condition effectively. They may also have certified asthma educators on staff, professionals specifically trained to help patients understand their medications, triggers, and self-management techniques. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, monitor medication adherence, and facilitate communication between providers are also highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor in the Asthma Score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Gamaliel. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication refills via telemedicine score higher. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving patients time and travel expenses, while still providing necessary care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they are critically important. Asthma, particularly when poorly controlled, can contribute to anxiety and depression. The Asthma Score should consider the availability of mental health services within the community or integrated within medical practices. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can address the psychological impact of asthma. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources are highly valued.

The overall Asthma Score for doctors in 42140 is not simply a numerical value but a qualitative assessment. It reflects the combined impact of all the factors discussed. A high score indicates excellent access to care, comprehensive services, and a commitment to patient well-being. A low score, conversely, highlights areas where improvements are needed.

Specific examples of practices in 42140 and their scores would require a detailed investigation, including contacting local clinics and hospitals, reviewing online resources, and potentially conducting patient surveys. This analysis would involve identifying the PCPs and specialists, evaluating their practice characteristics, assessing their telemedicine capabilities, and determining the availability of mental health resources.

Primary care availability in Gamaliel, a key component of the overall assessment, is determined by the number of PCPs practicing within the town and the surrounding area, as well as the accessibility of their services. This includes factors such as appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and the ability of patients to receive timely care. The geographic isolation of Gamaliel further emphasizes the importance of readily accessible primary care.

The analysis must also consider the broader healthcare landscape. The presence of a local hospital or clinic, the availability of emergency services, and the proximity to larger medical centers all influence the Asthma Score. A well-integrated healthcare system, where PCPs, specialists, and emergency services work collaboratively, is crucial for effective asthma management.

The Asthma Score analysis is not a static assessment. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the addition of new providers, the adoption of new technologies, or the expansion of mental health services. This dynamic approach ensures that the analysis remains relevant and useful for patients and healthcare providers alike.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower patients in Gamaliel and the surrounding area to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It also provides valuable insights for healthcare providers, highlighting areas where they can improve their services and better meet the needs of their patients.

For a visual representation of this data, including maps of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the Asthma Score analysis, making it easier to understand the healthcare landscape in 42140 and identify areas for improvement.