24977, Smoot, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 24977, Smoot, West Virginia is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.08 percent of the residents in 24977 has some form of health insurance. 43.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.90 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 24977 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 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24977. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 129 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 496 health care providers accessible to residents in 24977, Smoot, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24977 & Primary Care in Smoot

Analyzing the quality of asthma care and primary care availability within ZIP code 24977, which encompasses Smoot, presents a complex challenge. This rural area in West Virginia likely faces unique hurdles in healthcare access and delivery. Assessing an "Asthma Score" necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall infrastructure supporting asthma management.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Smoot, being a relatively small community, may struggle with a shortage of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists. A low ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, infrequent follow-up appointments, and potentially, poorer asthma control. Data from the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) would be crucial in determining the actual ratio within 24977. Publicly available information may reveal the number of practicing physicians, but it's essential to determine how many of these are accepting new patients and are actively treating asthma patients.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of healthcare providers is also important. Are the available physicians clustered in a single practice or hospital system, or are they dispersed throughout the area? A centralized system might offer greater efficiency in resource allocation, but it could also create access barriers for patients in more remote locations. Conversely, a decentralized system might offer more convenient access for some, but it could suffer from fragmentation of care.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires a deeper dive. Are there any practices that demonstrate exceptional asthma management protocols? This could be gauged by looking at patient outcomes, such as the number of asthma exacerbations requiring emergency room visits or hospitalizations. Practices with robust patient education programs, comprehensive asthma action plans, and regular follow-up appointments would likely score higher. Data from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or other quality reporting organizations could provide insights into the performance of specific practices. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can also offer valuable perspectives on the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. In a rural area like Smoot, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive remote monitoring. Practices that utilize telemedicine for asthma management, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and medication adherence support, would likely score higher. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a critical prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in asthma management, but it is vitally important. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and reduce adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would be better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This could include access to therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists specializing in chronic illness.

The availability of ancillary services also impacts the Asthma Score. Are there readily accessible pharmacies to fill prescriptions? Are there respiratory therapists available to provide education and support? Are there community resources, such as support groups or educational programs, for asthma patients and their families? The presence of these resources can significantly enhance the quality of care and improve patient outcomes.

Assessing primary care availability in Smoot goes hand-in-hand with the asthma score. Primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, often serving as the first point of contact for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased reliance on emergency room visits. The ability to get timely appointments with a PCP is essential.

Furthermore, the accessibility of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is critical. While PCPs can manage many asthma cases, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require specialized care. The distance to specialists, appointment wait times, and insurance coverage are all factors that impact access.

The overall infrastructure supporting asthma management should also be evaluated. This includes the availability of diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, and the availability of medications, including both rescue inhalers and long-term control medications. The cost of medications and the availability of financial assistance programs can also impact a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Asthma Score" for 24977 requires a comprehensive analysis of multiple factors. While the exact score will vary depending on the data available and the specific methodology used, it's clear that the community faces unique challenges in providing high-quality asthma care. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including increasing the number of physicians, expanding telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health resources, and improving access to ancillary services.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 24977 and surrounding areas, including physician locations, access to care, and potential areas for improvement, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can provide valuable insights into healthcare access and delivery.