24938, Frankford, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 24938, Frankford, West Virginia is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.37 percent of the residents in 24938 has some form of health insurance. 50.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.51 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 24938 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 418 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24938. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 293 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 887 health care providers accessible to residents in 24938, Frankford, West Virginia.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Frankford, WV (ZIP Code 24938)**

Analyzing healthcare access, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP Code 24938 (Frankford, WV), evaluating factors relevant to asthma management. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial for holistic patient care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Frankford, WV, is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face shortages compared to urban centers. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in asthma diagnosis and treatment. This scarcity can be exacerbated by a lack of specialists, forcing patients to travel considerable distances for specialized respiratory care. Accurate data on the current PCP-to-patient ratio is difficult to extract without proprietary data. However, publicly available sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates, and local healthcare providers and county health departments are valuable resources for obtaining up-to-date information.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in asthma management, potentially including a focus on patient education, personalized treatment plans, and proactive follow-up care. Factors to consider include the practice's adherence to national asthma guidelines, the availability of on-site respiratory therapists, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate care coordination. Practices that actively engage patients in their treatment plans, provide asthma action plans, and offer educational materials are particularly valuable. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly vital, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of asthma symptoms. This can significantly improve access to care for patients who live far from medical facilities or have mobility limitations. Practices that offer telemedicine services, especially for follow-up appointments and medication refills, can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the burden of travel. The availability of reliable internet access in the Frankford area is a crucial factor influencing the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine. Practices that offer telehealth options are often more accessible to patients who might otherwise face barriers to care.

The integration of mental health resources is also a critical aspect of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, such as counseling or access to mental health professionals, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This integration can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological impact of asthma and promoting overall well-being. The availability of mental health support within the Frankford community, whether through on-site services or referrals, is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma care strategy.

Evaluating the quality of asthma care requires a comprehensive approach. This includes assessing the availability of diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, to accurately assess lung function. Practices that routinely perform spirometry and other relevant tests are better equipped to diagnose and monitor asthma. The availability of emergency care services, including access to bronchodilators and other medications, is also crucial. Furthermore, the practice's ability to coordinate care with specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is essential for patients with complex asthma cases.

The effectiveness of asthma management can also be assessed by looking at the practice's patient outcomes. This includes tracking the frequency of asthma exacerbations, hospitalizations, and emergency room visits. Practices that demonstrate a reduction in these events are likely providing effective care. Additionally, the practice's commitment to patient education, including providing information on asthma triggers, medication management, and self-management techniques, is a key indicator of quality.

The availability of after-hours care is another important consideration. Asthma symptoms can occur at any time, and patients need access to medical advice and treatment outside of regular office hours. Practices that offer after-hours phone consultations, telehealth options, or partnerships with urgent care facilities can improve patient access to care and reduce the need for emergency room visits.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in Frankford, WV (24938) involves a multifaceted evaluation of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient outcomes. While specific data points are difficult to extract without proprietary information, a comprehensive assessment should consider these factors to provide a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape and the resources available to patients with asthma. The availability of primary care physicians, the integration of mental health services, and the adoption of telemedicine are all crucial elements in ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Frankford, WV, and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and other relevant healthcare facilities, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a valuable tool for visualizing healthcare access and identifying potential gaps in care.