42782, Summersville, Kentucky Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 42782, Summersville, Kentucky is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.28 percent of the residents in 42782 has some form of health insurance. 59.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.80 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 42782 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 136 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42782. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 155 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 42782, Summersville, Kentucky.

The analysis focuses on asthma care accessibility and quality within the 42782 ZIP code, encompassing Summersville, Kentucky, with a specific emphasis on primary care. The evaluation incorporates physician-to-patient ratios, practice profiles, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for asthma patients in this locale.

Summersville, Kentucky, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of asthma management success. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests a potential strain on existing resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised patient care. Conversely, a higher ratio might indicate better access, but it’s essential to consider the quality of care and the specific expertise of the physicians.

Evaluating individual practices within the 42782 ZIP code requires a nuanced approach. Identifying standout practices involves assessing several factors. Does the practice offer extended hours to accommodate patients with unpredictable asthma symptoms? Are they accepting new patients, and how quickly can appointments be scheduled? Do they have dedicated asthma educators or respiratory therapists on staff? Furthermore, the practice's adherence to established asthma guidelines, as recommended by organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is a crucial indicator of quality. This includes regular spirometry testing, personalized asthma action plans, and patient education regarding medication and environmental triggers.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Summersville can significantly improve asthma care accessibility. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from medical facilities or have mobility issues. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive asthma management. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with digital data transmission capabilities, would further enhance telemedicine’s effectiveness.

The connection between asthma and mental health is well-documented. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, potentially exacerbating their symptoms and impacting their quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referrals is a crucial aspect of a comprehensive asthma care model. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma management programs demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in 42782 requires data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure. Publicly available data often provides a general overview but may not reflect the specific focus of each physician. A detailed analysis needs to account for primary care physicians actively practicing in the area, their patient load, and their specific expertise in asthma management. It is essential to determine the number of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists who provide care to residents of Summersville.

Evaluating the practice profiles necessitates gathering information through multiple channels. This includes reviewing practice websites, contacting the practices directly, and consulting patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Zocdoc. Patient testimonials can offer valuable insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall patient experience. The analysis should also consider the practice's involvement in community outreach programs and its commitment to patient education.

The extent of telemedicine adoption can be determined by examining practice websites, contacting the practices, and investigating the availability of virtual appointment options. The presence of patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records and communicate with their physicians, is another indicator of telemedicine integration. Furthermore, the availability of remote monitoring devices and the use of telehealth platforms should be investigated.

The availability of mental health resources can be evaluated by inquiring with the primary care practices about their referral networks. Reviewing the local mental health services directory and assessing the availability of mental health professionals in the area are also important. The analysis should consider the accessibility of these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times.

Ultimately, a comprehensive asthma score analysis for the 42782 ZIP code involves synthesizing data from various sources and evaluating multiple factors. The analysis should provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. This detailed assessment helps patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and empowers them to advocate for better asthma management.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice profiles, and resource availability, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can visually represent the healthcare landscape, making it easier to understand and navigate.