25140, Naoma, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25140, Naoma, West Virginia is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.03 percent of the residents in 25140 has some form of health insurance. 81.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.00 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 25140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 181 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25140. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 298 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47 health care providers accessible to residents in 25140, Naoma, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Naoma, WV (ZIP Code 25140)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, especially concerning asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall healthcare landscape within Naoma, West Virginia (ZIP code 25140), to assess its "Asthma Score." This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Naoma, and by extension, the surrounding areas within ZIP code 25140, presents a significant initial challenge. Rural communities often grapple with a shortage of healthcare professionals, including PCPs. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments for chronic conditions like asthma. Accurately determining the precise ratio requires access to up-to-date data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau, cross-referenced with practice locations and patient demographics. Without this detailed information, any estimate remains speculative. However, based on general trends in rural West Virginia, it is reasonable to assume that the ratio in Naoma is likely less favorable compared to more urban areas.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the specific healthcare providers serving the community. This involves evaluating factors such as the practice's adherence to asthma guidelines (e.g., those established by the National Institutes of Health), the availability of specialized equipment for asthma management (e.g., peak flow meters, spirometry), and the practice's patient satisfaction scores. A practice excelling in asthma care would likely have a dedicated asthma educator or respiratory therapist on staff, actively engage in patient education about triggers and management strategies, and regularly review and adjust treatment plans based on patient needs. Without specific practice names and detailed performance data, it's impossible to definitively name standout practices within 25140. However, a review of online reviews, combined with information from the West Virginia Medical Association, could provide valuable insights.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, offering patients access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. For asthma patients, telemedicine can facilitate regular monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and timely interventions. The "Asthma Score" would be positively influenced by practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms for asthma management. This includes offering virtual appointments, providing remote monitoring tools (e.g., connected peak flow meters), and integrating telehealth into their overall care plans. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption requires direct inquiry with practices in the area, as well as an analysis of available telehealth infrastructure and internet access within the community.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical aspect of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and integrate mental health services into their care models receive higher "Asthma Scores." This integration could involve on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with local mental health providers, or readily available resources for patients experiencing emotional distress related to their asthma. Evaluating this aspect requires assessing the availability of mental health services within the practices themselves, as well as within the broader community, and the degree to which these services are coordinated with asthma care.

To construct a robust "Asthma Score" for Naoma, a weighted approach is needed. The physician-to-patient ratio would likely carry a significant weight, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to care. Telemedicine adoption, the presence of standout practices, and the integration of mental health resources would also be weighted, reflecting their contributions to overall quality and patient well-being. The score would ideally range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better asthma care. A score of 0 would represent a complete lack of access and resources, while a score of 100 would indicate exceptional care across all assessed domains.

Without the detailed data required for a precise calculation, it's difficult to assign a definitive "Asthma Score" to Naoma, WV. However, based on the general challenges faced by rural communities, the score is likely to be lower than in more urban areas. Addressing the physician shortage, promoting telemedicine adoption, supporting the development of standout practices, and integrating mental health services are crucial steps to improve the "Asthma Score" and, more importantly, the quality of life for asthma patients in the community. Further research, including direct engagement with local healthcare providers and community stakeholders, is essential to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the situation and identify specific areas for improvement.

To gain a clearer visual understanding of healthcare accessibility and resource distribution within Naoma and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, overlaid with demographic information and other relevant factors. This visual representation can help identify areas with limited access to care, highlight potential disparities, and inform strategies for improving healthcare delivery.