42516, Bethelridge, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 42516, Bethelridge, Kentucky is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.64 percent of the residents in 42516 has some form of health insurance. 70.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.28 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 42516 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42516. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 154 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,985 health care providers accessible to residents in 42516, Bethelridge, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in 42516 and Primary Care in Bethelridge

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within the 42516 ZIP code, encompassing Bethelridge, Kentucky, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into several key areas: physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive asthma management. The ultimate goal is to assess the overall "Asthma Score" for the region, providing a clearer picture of the care landscape for residents.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Bethelridge, a predominantly rural area, this ratio is likely a significant factor. A low ratio, meaning a limited number of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnosis or treatment. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the US Census Bureau would be essential to determine the exact ratio for primary care physicians and pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases, including asthma) within the 42516 ZIP code. Any analysis would also need to consider the age distribution of the population, as children and the elderly often have a higher prevalence of asthma and therefore, greater need for medical attention.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of specialized equipment for asthma diagnosis and treatment (such as spirometry), and the implementation of evidence-based asthma management guidelines. Practices that consistently demonstrate patient-centered care, including clear communication, patient education, and personalized treatment plans, would score highly. Furthermore, the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on reducing asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations, would be a significant positive indicator. Patient reviews and feedback, gathered through online platforms or internal surveys, offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. The availability of telemedicine consultations, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely, can improve access to routine check-ups, medication management, and asthma education. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists, would be viewed favorably. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the practice's overall workflow are also crucial factors in assessing its effectiveness.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Chronic respiratory conditions like asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, or that offer in-house mental health services, would score higher. The ability to screen patients for mental health issues and provide appropriate referrals is also essential. The integration of mental health services into the overall asthma management plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The “Asthma Score” for 42516 would ultimately be a composite score, reflecting the performance across all these areas. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare infrastructure, with readily accessible physicians, high-quality care, innovative telemedicine options, and integrated mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would signal potential challenges in accessing and receiving adequate asthma care, highlighting areas for improvement.

For Bethelridge specifically, the rural nature of the area presents unique challenges. The limited number of healthcare providers, the potential for longer travel distances, and the socioeconomic factors that may affect access to care all need to be considered. The analysis should also examine the availability of resources such as asthma education programs, support groups, and community outreach initiatives. These resources can empower patients to manage their asthma effectively and improve their overall well-being.

In conclusion, assessing the “Asthma Score” for the 42516 ZIP code requires a comprehensive evaluation of several factors. While this analysis provides a framework, a detailed assessment would necessitate gathering specific data from various sources, including physician directories, patient reviews, and healthcare utilization statistics. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the care landscape and identify areas where improvements can be made to ensure that residents of Bethelridge have access to the best possible asthma care.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in 42516, including the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and the distribution of asthma prevalence, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial representation of the data, making it easier to identify areas with limited access to care and to visualize the relationships between various factors that influence asthma management.