24884, Squire, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 24884, Squire, West Virginia is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24884 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.43 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 24884 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24884. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 70 health care providers accessible to residents in 24884, Squire, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24884 & Primary Care in Squire

The assessment of asthma care within ZIP code 24884 and the surrounding primary care landscape in Squire necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," aims to evaluate the accessibility, quality, and integration of resources for individuals managing asthma. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health support, all crucial factors in comprehensive asthma management.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in adequate access to primary care physicians (PCPs). Within ZIP code 24884, a preliminary investigation suggests a potential challenge in this area. Physician-to-patient ratios, a critical indicator of accessibility, need detailed scrutiny. National averages often serve as a benchmark, but local conditions, including the age distribution of the population and the prevalence of chronic conditions like asthma, significantly impact the ideal ratio. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and less frequent follow-up care, all detrimental to asthma control. Further investigation into the specific number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, combined with the estimated population size, is essential to determine the true ratio and identify potential gaps in access.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Evaluating the practices of physicians in 24884 requires assessing their adherence to established asthma guidelines. This includes examining their approach to diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient education. Do physicians consistently employ spirometry to assess lung function? Are they prescribing appropriate medications, including inhaled corticosteroids and rescue inhalers? Are they providing patients with personalized asthma action plans? Are they educating patients about asthma triggers and how to avoid them? The Asthma Score would incorporate these factors, recognizing practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care.

Identifying standout practices within the region is crucial. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in asthma management. A standout practice might excel in patient education, offering comprehensive programs that empower patients to self-manage their condition. They might utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient progress and coordinate care with specialists. They may also actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about asthma and providing education to vulnerable populations. The Asthma Score would highlight these exemplary practices, recognizing their contributions to improving asthma outcomes.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in assessing asthma care. Telemedicine, encompassing video consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual education, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. In the context of asthma, telemedicine can facilitate regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and educational sessions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, would receive higher scores. This assessment would also consider the ease of use of these telemedicine platforms and the availability of technical support for patients.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, potentially exacerbating symptoms and hindering adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive asthma care. The Asthma Score would evaluate the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Are physicians screening patients for anxiety and depression? Are they providing referrals to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists? Are mental health services readily accessible and affordable for patients? Practices that prioritize mental health support would be recognized for their holistic approach to patient care.

The primary care landscape in Squire, the broader community surrounding 24884, further influences the Asthma Score. The availability of primary care physicians in Squire, including specialists like pulmonologists and allergists, directly impacts access to specialized asthma care. The geographical proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of emergency services are all important considerations. The Asthma Score would reflect the overall healthcare ecosystem in Squire, recognizing the interconnectedness of primary care, specialist care, and emergency services in supporting asthma management.

The Asthma Score is not simply a ranking of individual physicians but a holistic assessment of the healthcare environment. It considers the availability of resources, the quality of care provided, and the integration of services. This assessment would also consider the affordability of care, including insurance coverage and the availability of financial assistance programs. A high Asthma Score indicates a healthcare system that is well-equipped to meet the needs of individuals with asthma, while a low score highlights areas that require improvement.

The data gathering process for this analysis would involve a combination of methods. This includes reviewing publicly available information, such as physician directories and hospital websites. Patient surveys could provide valuable insights into their experiences with care, including wait times, communication with their physicians, and the effectiveness of their treatment plans. Interviews with physicians and other healthcare professionals would offer a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in asthma care. This comprehensive data collection approach would ensure the accuracy and reliability of the Asthma Score.

Ultimately, the goal of the Asthma Score is to provide a clear and concise assessment of asthma care in ZIP code 24884 and the surrounding area. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, this analysis can inform efforts to improve asthma outcomes. This includes advocating for increased access to care, promoting the adoption of evidence-based practices, and fostering the integration of mental health services. This analysis serves as a starting point for a more detailed investigation, providing a framework for understanding the complexities of asthma care in this specific geographic area.

For a dynamic and visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 24884, including physician locations, specialist availability, and demographic data, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can transform complex data into easily understandable visualizations, aiding in the identification of healthcare disparities and informing strategic planning.