24830, Elbert, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 24830, Elbert, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 67.65 percent of the residents in 24830 has some form of health insurance. 48.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.18 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 24830 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 17 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24830. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 493 health care providers accessible to residents in 24830, Elbert, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 24830 and Primary Care Availability in Elbert

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially concerning asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 24830 and the broader context of primary care availability in Elbert, evaluating key factors impacting asthma sufferers. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive asthma care.

The starting point is understanding the physician landscape within 24830. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, and allergists practicing within this specific ZIP code is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide this information. Alongside this, identifying the population size of 24830, and then calculating the physician-to-patient ratio for each specialty becomes the first crucial step. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of specialists, can significantly impact access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management for asthma.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of these physicians across the area is vital. Are the practices concentrated in one specific area, leaving other parts of the ZIP code underserved? Are there any Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other clinics that specifically target underserved populations? The presence of such facilities can indicate a commitment to providing healthcare to a wider range of individuals, including those who may be disproportionately affected by asthma.

Evaluating the quality of care provided is the next step. This involves assessing the practices themselves. Do they offer comprehensive asthma management programs, including patient education, peak flow meter training, and personalized action plans? Do they follow the latest guidelines from organizations like the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Reviewing patient testimonials, if available, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, communication effectiveness, and overall satisfaction with the care received.

The adoption of telemedicine within these practices is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for asthma management, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication refills. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, improve patient convenience, and potentially reduce the number of in-person visits required. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health resources into asthma care is increasingly recognized as crucial. Asthma can have a significant impact on mental well-being, and conditions like anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This holistic approach can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

Now, expanding to Elbert and its primary care availability. Elbert's overall primary care landscape is a crucial consideration. Even if 24830 has a good concentration of specialists, the availability of accessible primary care physicians in the broader Elbert area is critical. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring. A shortage of PCPs in Elbert can create a bottleneck, delaying access to care and potentially worsening asthma outcomes.

The assessment of primary care availability in Elbert must include an evaluation of the distribution of PCPs across the county, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of evening and weekend appointments. Longer wait times for appointments and limited appointment availability can be significant barriers to accessing care, particularly for patients experiencing acute asthma exacerbations.

Additionally, examining the presence of community health initiatives and programs in Elbert that address asthma is essential. Are there any asthma education programs offered to the public? Are there any efforts to improve air quality, which can significantly impact asthma triggers? The existence of such programs indicates a broader community commitment to addressing asthma and improving public health.

Finally, evaluating the practices within 24830 and Elbert for their commitment to patient education and self-management is crucial. Asthma is a chronic condition that requires active patient participation in managing their symptoms. Practices that provide patients with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively manage their asthma are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. This includes educating patients about their medications, triggers, and action plans.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in 24830 and Elbert requires a comprehensive analysis that considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader availability of primary care. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, ultimately informing efforts to improve access to care, enhance patient outcomes, and reduce the burden of asthma on individuals and the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 24830 and Elbert, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, consider exploring interactive maps using CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.