02905, Providence, Rhode Island Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02905, Providence, Rhode Island is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.54 percent of the residents in 02905 has some form of health insurance. 49.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.41 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 02905 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,026 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02905. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,533 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,040 health care providers accessible to residents in 02905, Providence, Rhode Island.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Providence, RI (ZIP Code 02905) and Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Providence, Rhode Island, specifically focusing on ZIP code 02905, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the prevalence of asthma within the community, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis will provide an “Asthma Score” perspective, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Providence, and particularly within 02905, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment. Data from the Rhode Island Department of Health, coupled with information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), provides a basis for assessing this ratio. Publicly available data on physician licensing and practice locations, cross-referenced with population demographics for 02905, is essential to determine the precise ratio. Any shortage of primary care physicians in this area, especially those specializing in internal medicine or family medicine, will negatively impact the Asthma Score.

The quality of primary care is equally important. This involves assessing the qualifications of the physicians, their experience in treating asthma, and their adherence to established asthma management guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care, including regular patient education, medication management, and the use of spirometry to assess lung function, will score higher. Patient reviews and testimonials, though subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Beyond the individual physician, the infrastructure of primary care practices contributes significantly to the Asthma Score. Practices equipped with modern diagnostic tools, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and readily available spirometry, are better positioned to provide comprehensive asthma care. The availability of on-site pharmacies and respiratory therapists can also streamline the patient experience and improve adherence to treatment plans.

Standout practices within 02905, those that consistently demonstrate excellence in asthma care, deserve special recognition. These practices might have a dedicated asthma clinic or a team of healthcare professionals with specialized training in asthma management. They may also actively participate in community outreach programs to educate patients and raise awareness about asthma triggers and management strategies. Identifying these standout practices involves analyzing data from various sources, including patient surveys, clinical outcomes data (if available), and peer reviews. Their practices serve as models for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in the Asthma Score assessment. The ability for patients to access their physicians remotely, through video consultations or virtual check-ins, can significantly improve asthma management, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Telemedicine can facilitate regular monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, and have integrated it seamlessly into their workflow, will score higher. The availability of virtual asthma education programs and remote monitoring devices further enhances the value of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of asthma care, but they are critically important. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, will receive a higher Asthma Score. Integration of mental health screening tools into routine asthma checkups is a positive indicator.

The prevalence of asthma within 02905 and the surrounding areas also influences the Asthma Score. Data from the Rhode Island Department of Health, the CDC, and local community health organizations provide insights into asthma rates within the population. Areas with a higher prevalence of asthma, particularly among children and vulnerable populations, require a more robust healthcare infrastructure to meet the needs of the community. This includes ensuring access to specialized asthma care, community education programs, and environmental interventions to reduce asthma triggers.

Furthermore, the presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers plays a vital role in asthma care within 02905. These organizations often serve a disproportionate number of patients with asthma, particularly those who are uninsured or underinsured. Their ability to provide affordable, accessible, and culturally competent care is crucial to improving asthma outcomes. The Asthma Score will reflect the availability and quality of services offered by these providers.

Finally, the Asthma Score should consider the overall healthcare environment in Providence. The presence of hospitals with specialized asthma clinics, pulmonologists, and allergists enhances the availability of advanced asthma care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists, facilitated through referral networks and shared electronic health records, is a positive indicator. The existence of asthma-specific support groups and patient education programs within the community also contributes to a higher score.

In conclusion, assessing the “Asthma Score” for 02905 and the primary care landscape in Providence requires a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, physician qualifications, practice infrastructure, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the prevalence of asthma within the community. The presence of standout practices, community health centers, and specialized asthma care providers will also significantly impact the score. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and identifying areas for improvement.

For visualizing the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, asthma prevalence, and other relevant data points within Providence, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for analyzing geographic data and gaining valuable insights into the healthcare landscape.