24740, Princeton, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 24740, Princeton, West Virginia is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.28 percent of the residents in 24740 has some form of health insurance. 52.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.11 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 24740 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,684 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24740. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,765 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,397 health care providers accessible to residents in 24740, Princeton, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Princeton, WV (ZIP Code 24740)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within Princeton, West Virginia (ZIP Code 24740) requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing physician accessibility, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. This analysis aims to provide an “Asthma Score” assessment, considering key factors relevant to asthma management within this specific geographic area. The ultimate goal is to offer insights into the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers and provide actionable information.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). In Princeton, determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Publicly available data, such as those from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau, can be utilized to ascertain the number of PCPs practicing within the 24740 ZIP code and the population they serve. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care, which could negatively impact the Asthma Score. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility.

Beyond simple numbers, the type of primary care offered is important. Are there enough family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians to cover the needs of the population? Pediatric asthma, in particular, requires specialized knowledge and care. The presence of pediatricians with a strong understanding of asthma management significantly improves the Asthma Score for the pediatric population. The presence of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists in the area, while not primary care providers, are also critical resources for specialized asthma care and further impact the overall Asthma Score.

The operational characteristics of primary care practices also influence the Asthma Score. Practices that offer extended hours, including evening or weekend appointments, enhance accessibility for patients who may struggle to attend appointments during standard business hours. Practices with efficient appointment scheduling systems, minimizing wait times, contribute positively to the score. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated asthma education programs within these practices demonstrates a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management, which is crucial for long-term asthma control.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve the Asthma Score. Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for asthma follow-up appointments, are likely to receive a higher score. The ease of use of these telemedicine platforms, including the availability of technical support, also influences their effectiveness and impact on the Asthma Score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that impacts quality of life and can contribute to anxiety and depression. The availability of mental health services, including counseling and therapy, within the primary care setting or through referrals, significantly improves the Asthma Score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals ensures a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of asthma.

Identifying standout practices within the 24740 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This includes assessing patient reviews, examining the qualifications of physicians, and evaluating the services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer comprehensive asthma management plans, and actively engage in patient education would likely receive higher marks. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication and coordination of care also contributes positively to the Asthma Score.

The integration of asthma-specific tools and resources is another important consideration. Practices that utilize spirometry testing, peak flow meters, and asthma action plans demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care. The availability of these tools and the physician's proficiency in interpreting the results contribute to improved asthma control and a higher Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for Princeton, WV (24740) is a composite measure, reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of asthma care. It is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Factors that improve the score include a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized providers (allergists and pulmonologists), the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of patient education programs.

Conversely, factors that detract from the score include long wait times for appointments, limited access to specialized care, a lack of telemedicine options, and a lack of integration between physical and mental healthcare. The score can be further refined by incorporating patient satisfaction surveys and analyzing health outcomes data, such as asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits.

To further enhance the Asthma Score analysis, it is essential to consider the socioeconomic factors that influence asthma prevalence and management. Poverty, housing conditions, and environmental factors can significantly impact asthma outcomes. Addressing these factors through community outreach programs and public health initiatives can improve the Asthma Score and overall health of the community.

The information presented in this analysis is intended to provide a general overview of asthma care in Princeton, WV (24740). It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individuals with asthma should consult with their healthcare providers for personalized care and treatment plans.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and demographic information, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Princeton, WV (24740).