42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 42167 has some form of health insurance. 55.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.61 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 42167 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,972 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42167. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,577 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 206 health care providers accessible to residents in 42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky.

The health landscape of Tompkinsville, Kentucky, specifically within ZIP Code 42167, presents a unique challenge when assessing asthma care. An "Asthma Score" analysis requires a multifaceted evaluation, encompassing physician availability, the quality of primary care, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis aims to provide a detailed understanding of the resources available to asthma patients in this rural setting.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. In a rural area like Tompkinsville, the density of physicians is often significantly lower than in urban centers. A low physician-to-patient ratio can translate to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialists, and potential difficulties in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 42167 ZIP code necessitates accessing data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and comparing it with the population data for the area. This initial assessment provides a baseline understanding of the accessibility of care.

Primary care availability is another cornerstone of effective asthma management. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing routine check-ups, medication management, and referrals to specialists when needed. The quality of primary care in Tompkinsville is directly linked to the overall asthma score. Factors to consider include the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the availability of same-day appointments for acute asthma exacerbations, and the PCP's familiarity with current asthma treatment guidelines.

Identifying standout practices within the community is crucial. Some practices may excel in asthma care through specialized training, a commitment to patient education, or the implementation of innovative treatment strategies. Researching local practices and reviewing patient testimonials can help highlight those that are particularly effective. These practices might offer comprehensive asthma management programs, including regular spirometry testing, personalized asthma action plans, and patient education sessions.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. The availability of telehealth consultations for asthma patients in Tompkinsville can significantly improve their asthma score. Telemedicine enables patients to connect with their physicians remotely for medication refills, follow-up appointments, and even virtual asthma education sessions. Assessing the adoption rate of telemedicine among local healthcare providers and the availability of telehealth services is a key component of this analysis.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma care, but they are an essential element. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The availability of mental health services in Tompkinsville, including access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is an important factor in the overall asthma score. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within primary care practices, can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients.

Specific data collection is essential for an accurate asthma score. This involves gathering information on physician demographics, practice locations, insurance acceptance, and the availability of specialized asthma services. Public health agencies, local hospitals, and medical societies can provide valuable data. Patient surveys and focus groups can also offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Analyzing the collected data requires a systematic approach. Each factor, such as physician-to-patient ratio, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, should be assigned a weighted score based on its importance. The overall asthma score is then calculated by combining the weighted scores of all the factors. This allows for a comprehensive assessment of the asthma care landscape in Tompkinsville.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as poverty, housing quality, and access to transportation can significantly affect asthma outcomes. Addressing these social determinants is crucial for improving the asthma score and ensuring that all patients have equal access to quality care.

The analysis should also identify any gaps in care and recommend strategies for improvement. This might involve advocating for increased physician recruitment, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, or expanding access to mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, public health agencies, and community organizations is essential for implementing these strategies.

The final asthma score should be presented in a clear and concise format, along with a detailed explanation of the methodology used. The report should include specific recommendations for improving asthma care in Tompkinsville, tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of the community. The goal is to provide a roadmap for healthcare providers and policymakers to improve the lives of asthma patients in the area.

The analysis must also address the unique challenges of rural healthcare. Rural areas often face challenges such as limited access to specialists, transportation barriers, and a lack of broadband internet access. The asthma score analysis should consider these challenges and identify strategies to overcome them. This might involve exploring innovative models of care, such as mobile health clinics or community health workers.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" analysis for Tompkinsville, Kentucky, ZIP Code 42167, is a dynamic process. It requires continuous monitoring, data collection, and evaluation. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the analysis should be updated regularly to reflect these changes. The goal is to provide a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve asthma care and the overall health of the community.

The quality of the analysis hinges on accurate data and a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. It is a complex undertaking, but the potential benefits for asthma patients in Tompkinsville are significant.

To gain a visual representation of the data and the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Tompkinsville, Kentucky, and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, access to primary care, and the distribution of other relevant healthcare resources.