25102, Handley, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25102, Handley, West Virginia is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.34 percent of the residents in 25102 has some form of health insurance. 49.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.99 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 25102 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 156 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25102. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 59 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 276 health care providers accessible to residents in 25102, Handley, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 25102 & Primary Care in Handley

Assessing the quality of asthma care within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 25102, encompassing Handley, West Virginia, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources crucial for effective asthma management. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, ultimately aiming to create an "Asthma Score" indicative of the area's capacity to provide optimal asthma care.

Handley, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The limited population density often translates to lower physician-to-patient ratios compared to urban centers. This scarcity of providers can significantly impact access to timely appointments, follow-up care, and ongoing management of chronic conditions like asthma. Therefore, understanding the existing physician base is the first crucial step.

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio in 25102 requires data aggregation from multiple sources. This includes publicly available physician directories, insurance provider networks, and potentially, state medical board records. The ideal ratio, of course, varies based on the population's age distribution, health status, and the presence of other specialists. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally indicates better access. However, the quality of care is not solely determined by this metric.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices in Handley are critical. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they have extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have a dedicated asthma care program or a nurse educator specializing in asthma management? Practices that offer comprehensive services, including patient education, peak flow meter training, and personalized asthma action plans, contribute significantly to improved patient outcomes. The presence of on-site pharmacies or laboratory services further enhances convenience and patient adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Handley. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 25102 is a key factor in this asthma score analysis. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving the ease of follow-up appointments. This is especially beneficial for patients with asthma who may experience exacerbations and require prompt medical attention. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices, and secure messaging platforms directly impacts the accessibility and quality of asthma care.

Mental health is an often-overlooked component of chronic disease management. Asthma, being a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively affect treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health screening, counseling services, or partnerships with local mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care, which directly benefits asthma patients.

Identifying standout practices in 25102 is essential for highlighting best practices and encouraging improvements across the board. This requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles, patient reviews, and quality metrics. Practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, actively engage in patient education, and utilize technology to improve care delivery should be recognized. These practices serve as models for others, contributing to a higher overall asthma score for the area.

The asthma score is not a single number but a composite measure based on all the factors discussed above. It reflects the overall capacity of the healthcare system in 25102 to provide effective asthma care. The score would ideally consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of comprehensive services within primary care practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The higher the score, the better the quality of asthma care available in the area.

Assessing the asthma score involves gathering data, analyzing the information, and assigning weights to each factor based on its relative importance. The process is iterative, meaning it should be updated regularly as healthcare practices evolve and new data becomes available. This ongoing assessment ensures that the asthma score accurately reflects the current state of asthma care in Handley.

The challenges of providing healthcare in a rural area like Handley are undeniable. Limited resources, geographic isolation, and an aging population can all contribute to healthcare disparities. However, the opportunities for improvement are also significant. The adoption of technology, the integration of mental health services, and a focus on patient-centered care can all contribute to improved asthma outcomes.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive understanding of asthma care in 25102. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, it can inform strategies to improve access, quality, and outcomes for asthma patients. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to advocate for resources, implement best practices, and ultimately, improve the lives of individuals living with asthma in Handley.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access, and analyze demographic data related to asthma prevalence, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing complex geographic data, allowing for a deeper understanding of healthcare access and disparities in your area.