24981, Talcott, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 24981, Talcott, West Virginia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24981 has some form of health insurance. 67.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.63 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 24981 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 53 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24981. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 159 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 318 health care providers accessible to residents in 24981, Talcott, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 24981 and Primary Care Availability in Talcott, WV

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly regarding asthma management, requires a nuanced understanding of local resources. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their ability to serve patients with asthma within ZIP Code 24981 and the town of Talcott, West Virginia. The goal is to assess the "Asthma Score" – a composite metric reflecting the ease of access to qualified medical professionals, the availability of specialized asthma care, and the integration of supportive services.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests upon a strong primary care infrastructure. In Talcott, and the broader 24981 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can significantly impact access to timely appointments, routine check-ups, and ongoing asthma management. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, coupled with information from the American Medical Association and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, can be used to estimate this ratio. However, the true impact is felt on the ground. Patients may face extended wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions during asthma exacerbations. This can lead to increased hospitalizations and a diminished quality of life.

Beyond simple physician counts, the qualifications and specialization of the available PCPs are also paramount. While a general practitioner can provide basic asthma care, the presence of physicians with specific training or experience in pulmonology or allergy and immunology is highly beneficial. These specialists can offer more comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, advanced treatment options, and tailored management plans. Identifying the number of board-certified specialists within the area, and their willingness to accept new patients, is essential to a complete assessment of the "Asthma Score."

Examining the practices themselves reveals important insights. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to asthma management. These "standout practices" often prioritize patient education, offering resources on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques. They may also implement structured asthma action plans, individualized roadmaps for patients to follow in managing their condition. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial factor. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, improve care coordination, and allow for more efficient tracking of patient progress and medication refills.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Talcott. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and online educational resources, can positively impact the "Asthma Score." Investigating the number of practices offering telemedicine, the types of services provided, and the insurance coverage for these services is critical.

The interplay between physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is an important aspect of the "Asthma Score." Practices that integrate mental health screening and counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration is especially crucial for patients managing chronic conditions like asthma.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as respiratory therapists, asthma educators, and certified asthma specialists, also contributes to the overall "Asthma Score." Respiratory therapists can provide specialized treatments and education, while asthma educators can empower patients with the knowledge and skills needed to manage their condition effectively. The presence of these support services within the local healthcare ecosystem ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

The geographic distribution of healthcare resources is also a key consideration. Analyzing the location of primary care practices and specialty clinics within the 24981 ZIP code and the surrounding areas can reveal potential disparities in access to care. Are resources concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Identifying "healthcare deserts" and areas with limited access to care is crucial for understanding the challenges faced by patients with asthma.

Evaluating the insurance landscape is also important. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, can significantly impact access to care for vulnerable populations. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans ensure that more residents have access to the medical services they need. The availability of financial assistance programs and patient support services can further enhance access to care for those with limited financial resources.

Finally, the involvement of local community organizations and advocacy groups can also influence the "Asthma Score." These organizations can provide valuable resources, such as asthma education programs, support groups, and advocacy efforts. Their presence can help raise awareness about asthma, promote early diagnosis and treatment, and improve the overall health of the community. Assessing the level of community engagement and the availability of community-based resources is an important component of the overall assessment.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 24981 and primary care availability in Talcott requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the involvement of community organizations. A thorough evaluation of these factors will provide a more accurate picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare access, physician locations, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the power of interactive mapping. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed and visually compelling representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a deeper understanding of resource distribution and accessibility. Visit CartoChrome today to see how you can visualize the healthcare data for 24981 and Talcott and gain valuable insights into asthma care accessibility.