42327, Calhoun, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 42327, Calhoun, Kentucky is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.69 percent of the residents in 42327 has some form of health insurance. 31.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.16 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 42327 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,250 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42327. An estimate of 65 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 599 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,471 health care providers accessible to residents in 42327, Calhoun, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Calhoun, KY (ZIP Code 42327)

This analysis evaluates the quality of asthma care available in Calhoun, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42327), focusing on primary care physician accessibility, resource availability, and the overall healthcare landscape. The assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for asthma patients in this specific geographical area. We will consider factors impacting asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. In Calhoun, a critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient-physician interaction, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Assessing this ratio requires data on the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 42327 ZIP code and the estimated population. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure can provide these figures. The analysis must compare the Calhoun ratio to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts asthma outcomes. We need to identify practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. This involves evaluating factors such as the availability of certified asthma educators, the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines (like those from the National Institutes of Health), and the implementation of patient education programs. We can assess this by reviewing practice websites, patient testimonials (where available and ethically obtained), and potentially contacting practices directly to inquire about their asthma-specific services. Practices that actively monitor patient outcomes, track medication adherence, and provide personalized asthma action plans would score favorably.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially in rural areas like Calhoun, where geographic barriers can limit access to care. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in the 42327 ZIP code is crucial. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms (e.g., using peak flow meters and symptom trackers), and the ability to prescribe medications electronically. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, and potentially improve medication adherence through more frequent check-ins. The analysis should investigate which practices offer telemedicine services and the types of services they provide.

Asthma is not solely a physical condition; it significantly impacts mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, often exacerbating symptoms and hindering treatment adherence. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is therefore vital. This analysis must explore whether primary care practices in Calhoun have partnerships with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling services, or actively screen patients for mental health issues. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the overall well-being and asthma management of patients.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized asthma care. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, some patients require the expertise of pulmonologists or allergists. The proximity of such specialists to Calhoun and the ease of referral from primary care practices are important considerations. This involves identifying the closest specialists, assessing their availability, and evaluating the referral pathways established by primary care practices.

The assessment of primary care availability in Calhoun requires a holistic approach. We need to consider the availability of after-hours care, the accessibility of transportation for patients, and the affordability of healthcare services. Practices that offer extended hours, provide transportation assistance, or accept a wide range of insurance plans are more likely to provide comprehensive care.

The analysis should also examine the role of community resources. The presence of support groups, asthma education programs offered by local hospitals or community centers, and access to affordable medications are all crucial for effective asthma management. The analysis must identify these resources and assess their accessibility to patients in Calhoun.

Overall, the Asthma Score for Calhoun, KY (ZIP Code 42327) is determined by a complex interplay of factors. The analysis should provide a clear and concise summary of the findings, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape. It should identify areas where improvements are needed and offer recommendations for enhancing asthma care. The goal is to provide actionable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients alike.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and patient populations in Calhoun and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of data, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of healthcare accessibility and resource allocation.