42724, Cecilia, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 42724, Cecilia, Kentucky is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.77 percent of the residents in 42724 has some form of health insurance. 34.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.22 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 42724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 900 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,750 health care providers accessible to residents in 42724, Cecilia, Kentucky.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Cecilia, KY (ZIP Code 42724)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality for asthma patients in Cecilia, Kentucky (ZIP code 42724) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, their preparedness to manage asthma, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, reflecting the overall healthcare environment for asthma sufferers in this specific area.

The foundation of asthma care lies in accessible primary care. In Cecilia, determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio is critical. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure should be consulted to determine the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 42724 ZIP code. This data must then be compared to the population of Cecilia, accounting for age demographics, as children and the elderly are often more susceptible to asthma. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate potential access barriers, leading to delayed diagnosis, treatment, and exacerbation management.

Beyond raw numbers, the qualifications and expertise of these physicians are paramount. Are they board-certified in family medicine or internal medicine? Do they have experience managing asthma, including familiarity with current guidelines from the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? This information can be gleaned from physician profiles, practice websites, and potentially from patient reviews, though this data is often subjective. Practices that actively promote their asthma management capabilities, such as through dedicated asthma clinics or specialized staff training, would score higher.

The physical infrastructure of primary care practices also plays a role. Are practices equipped with spirometry equipment for accurate lung function testing? Do they have readily available asthma action plans and educational materials for patients? The availability of these resources directly impacts the quality of care provided. Furthermore, the proximity of specialists, such as pulmonologists, to the 42724 ZIP code is a factor. Easy access to specialized care is crucial for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma.

Telemedicine adoption is another important consideration. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its continued integration can significantly benefit asthma patients. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function, especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Practices that offer telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and asthma education, would receive a higher score. The ease of access to telehealth platforms, including the availability of user-friendly interfaces and technical support, is also important.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, and conversely, these mental health conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is crucial. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns, offer on-site counseling, or have established relationships with mental health providers would score higher. The integration of mental health services ensures a holistic approach to asthma management, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition.

Standout practices within Cecilia would demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. This includes a combination of factors: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, qualified and experienced physicians, state-of-the-art equipment, adoption of telemedicine, and integration of mental health services. They may also actively participate in community outreach programs, providing asthma education and awareness campaigns. Such practices would serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area. Identifying these practices requires a deep dive into practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially direct contact with the practices themselves.

The "Asthma Score" for Cecilia, KY (42724) would be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, physician qualifications, equipment availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource integration would each contribute to the overall score. A higher score would indicate a more favorable healthcare environment for asthma patients, with better access to care, higher quality treatment, and a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, enhancing physician training, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health resources.

This analysis is a starting point. To gain a comprehensive understanding, further investigation is needed. This includes gathering specific data on physician availability, practice characteristics, and patient outcomes. It also requires a deeper understanding of the community's needs and the challenges faced by asthma patients in Cecilia.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in Cecilia, KY (42724) and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can help you explore physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data related to asthma prevalence. CartoChrome can help you understand the geographic distribution of resources and identify potential areas for improvement in asthma care delivery.