25110, Hugheston, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25110, Hugheston, West Virginia is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25110 has some form of health insurance. 49.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.41 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 25110 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 175 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25110. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 228 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 236 health care providers accessible to residents in 25110, Hugheston, West Virginia.

The analysis below assesses asthma care and primary care accessibility within the context of Hugheston, West Virginia (ZIP code 25110). This evaluation considers factors like physician availability, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in managing a chronic condition like asthma. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, informing both residents and healthcare providers.

The foundation of any asthma care assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Hugheston, being a relatively small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: a potential scarcity of doctors. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio suggests a higher patient load per doctor, potentially impacting appointment availability and the time a physician can dedicate to each patient. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the US Census Bureau can provide insights into these ratios, though precise figures specific to 25110 require more in-depth research.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are the available doctors concentrated in one clinic or hospital, or are they spread across multiple locations? This distribution influences accessibility, especially for individuals with limited transportation options. The presence of after-hours or weekend clinics can also significantly impact asthma management, as exacerbations can occur at any time. A lack of such services necessitates reliance on emergency room visits, which are often less effective for managing asthma and can be financially burdensome.

Standout practices within the Hugheston area would likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. This includes not only diagnosing and treating asthma but also providing patient education on triggers, medication management, and proper inhaler technique. Practices that actively engage in asthma action plan development, tailored to individual patient needs, would be considered exemplary. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with pulmonologists or allergy specialists for complex cases are crucial. The ability to offer spirometry testing, a key diagnostic tool for asthma, onsite is another positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely. For asthma management, this might involve virtual consultations for medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering both scheduled appointments and options for asynchronous communication (e.g., secure messaging), are better positioned to provide accessible and convenient care. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with data transmission capabilities, can further enhance telemedicine's effectiveness.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of asthma care. Asthma, being a chronic condition, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are demonstrating a more holistic approach to patient well-being. This could involve on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health agencies, or simply screening patients for mental health concerns during routine appointments.

The assessment of asthma care also involves evaluating the availability of specialty care. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, some patients require the expertise of pulmonologists or allergists. The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can access them are essential factors. The presence of local hospitals equipped to handle asthma exacerbations, including access to nebulizers and other emergency treatments, is also vital.

Another factor to consider is the availability of resources for underserved populations. Are there programs in place to assist low-income individuals with medication costs or transportation to appointments? Does the community have access to asthma education programs or support groups? Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in Hugheston (25110) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of healthcare services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialist care. While specific data for Hugheston may be limited, a thorough analysis using available public data and local knowledge can provide a valuable understanding of the healthcare landscape.

For a more comprehensive visualization of healthcare resources in Hugheston and surrounding areas, including the locations of medical practices, pharmacies, and other relevant facilities, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can provide a valuable spatial perspective on healthcare access.