24870, Oceana, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 24870, Oceana, West Virginia is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.76 percent of the residents in 24870 has some form of health insurance. 62.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.94 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 24870 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 255 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24870. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 114 health care providers accessible to residents in 24870, Oceana, West Virginia.

The analysis below delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP code 24870, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration, while also considering the broader context of primary care access in Oceana. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to asthma patients in the area.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible and qualified medical professionals. In ZIP code 24870, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care providers is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer asthma control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and potentially more proactive management strategies. Specific data on the physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code, as compared to the national average, is essential for a complete understanding.

The availability of board-certified pulmonologists and allergists is equally important. Asthma is a complex condition, and specialized expertise is often necessary for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management, especially for severe cases. The presence of these specialists within the community, or easily accessible in nearby areas, significantly impacts the quality of care. Information on the number and location of these specialists, along with their acceptance of various insurance plans, is crucial for patients.

The structure and operational characteristics of local practices play a significant role in asthma care. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, and same-day sick visits enhance accessibility and convenience for patients, particularly those experiencing acute asthma exacerbations. The availability of on-site diagnostic testing, such as spirometry, and the presence of dedicated asthma educators further contribute to comprehensive care. Practices that actively participate in asthma-focused quality improvement programs demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based practices and improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for asthma management, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and asthma education. The adoption rate of telemedicine among practices in ZIP code 24870 is a key indicator of accessibility and innovation. Practices that offer virtual visits, remote monitoring capabilities, and digital patient portals are better positioned to provide convenient and proactive care.

Asthma often co-exists with other health conditions, including mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder treatment adherence. The integration of mental health services into asthma care is therefore crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals, or have established referral pathways to mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of mental health resources, such as support groups and educational materials, also contributes to improved patient well-being.

Evaluating standout practices within ZIP code 24870 requires a multi-faceted approach. Practices that consistently demonstrate high patient satisfaction scores, positive outcomes in asthma control measures, and a commitment to patient education deserve recognition. Practices that actively engage in community outreach programs, such as asthma awareness campaigns and school-based interventions, also contribute to improved public health. Gathering patient testimonials and reviewing publicly available data on practice performance can help identify these exemplary practices.

The assessment of primary care availability in Oceana must consider the broader context of healthcare access within the region. Factors such as the geographic distribution of primary care providers, the availability of public transportation, and the presence of any healthcare deserts are important considerations. The number of primary care physicians per capita, the average wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of Medicaid and other insurance plans all influence access to care.

The availability of urgent care centers and emergency rooms within the Oceana area is also a critical factor. These facilities provide immediate care for acute asthma exacerbations, but they are not substitutes for ongoing primary care and asthma management. The proximity of these facilities, their staffing levels, and their ability to provide specialized asthma care contribute to the overall safety net for asthma patients.

The analysis should also incorporate data on the prevalence of asthma within the community. Higher asthma prevalence rates may indicate a greater need for resources and interventions. Data on asthma-related hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and school absences can provide valuable insights into the burden of asthma within the community. This data helps to inform the allocation of resources and the development of targeted interventions.

In conclusion, the asthma care landscape in ZIP code 24870 and the primary care availability in Oceana are complex and multi-faceted. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration provides a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to asthma patients. This analysis highlights the need for data-driven insights and targeted interventions to improve asthma management and patient outcomes.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 24870 and Oceana, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Use CartoChrome to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare access in your area.