25067, East Bank, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25067, East Bank, West Virginia is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.42 percent of the residents in 25067 has some form of health insurance. 45.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.61 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 25067 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 157 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25067. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 149 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 216 health care providers accessible to residents in 25067, East Bank, West Virginia.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 25067 and Primary Care Availability in East Bank**

The analysis of asthma care access and primary care availability in East Bank, West Virginia, specifically within ZIP code 25067, requires a multi-faceted approach. Evaluating the quality of care necessitates understanding the landscape of healthcare providers, the resources they offer, and the accessibility of those resources to the community. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the integration of mental health resources, ultimately culminating in a call to action.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment. In ZIP code 25067, the physician-to-patient ratio should be carefully assessed. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the U.S. Census Bureau, and relevant professional organizations would be necessary to calculate this ratio accurately. A low ratio warrants further investigation to identify potential barriers to care, such as geographical isolation, lack of insurance coverage, or a shortage of specialists.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the specific healthcare providers operating within the ZIP code. This includes primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists who contribute to asthma management. Evaluating these practices involves considering several factors. The availability of extended hours, including evening and weekend appointments, can significantly improve access for working individuals and families. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is crucial for seamless information sharing and coordinated care. Furthermore, the presence of certified asthma educators and respiratory therapists within a practice can significantly enhance patient education and self-management skills.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like East Bank. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for expanding access to care, especially for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. Telehealth consultations can reduce travel time and costs, improve medication adherence, and facilitate remote monitoring of symptoms. The analysis must examine the availability of telemedicine services among the healthcare providers in 25067. This includes assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used, the services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the insurance coverage for these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can be considered standout practices, particularly if they demonstrate a commitment to improving patient outcomes through this technology.

Mental health resources play a critical role in asthma management. Asthma is often associated with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. These conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and complicate treatment adherence. Therefore, the integration of mental health services within primary care and specialty practices is essential. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, in the area. This includes assessing whether these professionals are integrated into primary care practices, the ease of referral to mental health services, and the availability of mental health support groups or educational programs for patients with asthma. Practices that prioritize mental health integration can be considered leaders in providing comprehensive asthma care.

The analysis of primary care availability in East Bank, beyond the specific ZIP code, requires a broader perspective. This involves assessing the overall density of PCPs in the area, the geographical distribution of these providers, and the accessibility of transportation to reach these practices. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is particularly important, as these facilities often serve vulnerable populations and provide affordable care. The analysis must also consider the availability of after-hours care, urgent care clinics, and hospital emergency departments, which can serve as alternative access points for patients with acute asthma exacerbations.

To conduct a comprehensive analysis, it's crucial to gather data from various sources. This includes:

* **Healthcare Provider Directories:** These directories provide information on the location, specialties, and contact information of healthcare providers.
* **Insurance Provider Databases:** These databases can identify providers who accept specific insurance plans.
* **Patient Surveys and Focus Groups:** Gathering feedback from patients can provide valuable insights into their experiences with healthcare access and quality.
* **Public Health Data:** The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide valuable data on health indicators, including asthma prevalence and related health outcomes.

The final "Asthma Score" would be a composite metric reflecting the various factors discussed. This score could be calculated using a weighted system, where each factor is assigned a specific weight based on its importance. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be assigned a higher weight than the availability of telemedicine services. The score would then be used to rank the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 25067 and East Bank, highlighting areas of strength and weakness.

This analysis would reveal the specific challenges and opportunities for improving asthma care access and primary care availability in East Bank. The findings could inform strategies to address identified gaps in care, such as recruiting more healthcare providers, expanding telemedicine services, and integrating mental health resources. The data could also be used to educate the public about available resources and to advocate for policy changes that support improved healthcare access.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in East Bank, including the locations of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas with the greatest need. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in East Bank and to make informed decisions about improving asthma care access.