24974, Secondcreek, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 24974, Secondcreek, West Virginia is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.29 percent of the residents in 24974 has some form of health insurance. 53.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.05 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 24974 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 110 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24974. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 43 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 571 health care providers accessible to residents in 24974, Secondcreek, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 24974 and Primary Care in Secondcreek

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the asthma care landscape for residents of ZIP Code 24974, focusing on the availability of primary care in the community of Secondcreek, West Virginia. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment.

The foundation of asthma management lies in accessible and responsive primary care. In Secondcreek, the availability of primary care physicians is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive management of asthma symptoms. Research into the specific patient population within 24974, including age demographics and prevalence of asthma, is essential to accurately gauge the adequacy of the current physician-to-patient ratio. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, combined with information from local healthcare providers, would be necessary to establish a baseline for this assessment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are the primary care physicians in Secondcreek well-versed in asthma management guidelines? Do they regularly update their knowledge and skills through continuing medical education? This can be assessed by examining the credentials and certifications of the physicians, along with their participation in professional organizations focused on respiratory health. The adoption of evidence-based practices, such as regular spirometry testing to assess lung function and personalized asthma action plans, also contributes to the quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 24974 is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices in asthma management. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of patient education programs, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to proactive asthma management, such as offering regular asthma screenings and providing timely interventions, should be recognized. Examining patient outcomes, such as hospital readmission rates for asthma exacerbations, can further differentiate the quality of care provided by different practices.

The integration of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve asthma care, particularly in rural areas like Secondcreek. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The adoption of telemedicine platforms for asthma management can be evaluated by assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices, and online patient education resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer more convenient and accessible care, leading to improved patient outcomes.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within Secondcreek is therefore a critical component of the "Asthma Score" analysis. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, as well as support groups and educational programs. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions and provide referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a holistic approach to asthma care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for providing comprehensive care.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities also plays a role. Are the primary care practices in Secondcreek accessible to patients with disabilities? Do they have adequate waiting areas and examination rooms? The availability of specialized equipment, such as nebulizers and peak flow meters, is also important. Furthermore, the location of healthcare facilities relative to the population served is a factor. Are practices conveniently located, or do patients face significant travel distances to access care?

The "Asthma Score" assessment should also consider the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to respiratory therapists, asthma educators, and pharmacists who can provide guidance on medication management. The presence of community-based programs, such as asthma support groups and educational workshops, can also enhance patient self-management skills and improve overall outcomes. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is essential for creating a comprehensive asthma care system.

Data collection and analysis are key to generating an accurate "Asthma Score". Gathering information from various sources, including healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patient surveys, is crucial. Analyzing this data requires the use of statistical methods to identify trends and patterns. The final "Asthma Score" should be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy interpretation and comparison. It should include a detailed explanation of the methodology used and a clear identification of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in ZIP Code 24974.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 24974 and primary care availability in Secondcreek requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of ancillary services. By carefully evaluating these factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the asthma care landscape and identify areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents of Secondcreek and the surrounding areas have access to high-quality, patient-centered asthma care.

For a visual representation of this healthcare landscape, including the location of practices, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, we recommend exploring the power of spatial analysis. Utilize CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare access and quality in ZIP Code 24974.