25148, Orgas, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25148, Orgas, West Virginia is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.50 percent of the residents in 25148 has some form of health insurance. 73.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.50 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 25148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25148. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 154 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 307 health care providers accessible to residents in 25148, Orgas, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25148 & Primary Care in Orgas, WV

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP code 25148, specifically focusing on the Orgas community, requires a multi-faceted approach. An “Asthma Score,” while not a universally recognized metric, can be crafted to assess the overall preparedness of the local healthcare ecosystem to manage asthma, a chronic respiratory condition frequently encountered in primary care settings. This analysis will delve into factors influencing asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, ultimately providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Orgas.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Orgas is crucial. While precise figures require access to proprietary databases, publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the US Census Bureau can provide estimates. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, can significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of asthma. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary interventions and exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is vital. Are physicians concentrated in a specific area, leaving other parts of Orgas underserved? This geographical disparity can create healthcare deserts, where residents face significant challenges in accessing primary care services. Furthermore, the types of primary care practices available matter. Do practices accept a variety of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, which are often utilized by individuals with chronic conditions like asthma? The acceptance of insurance directly impacts affordability and accessibility.

Identifying standout practices within the 25148 ZIP code is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive asthma care. This includes offering services like spirometry testing (a lung function test), asthma education for patients and families, and developing personalized asthma action plans. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively are likely to have a more streamlined approach to managing asthma, including tracking patient symptoms, medication adherence, and appointment scheduling. Furthermore, practices with a strong focus on preventative care, such as regular check-ups and vaccinations, can play a vital role in minimizing asthma exacerbations.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in the Asthma Score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial for asthma management. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially during times of poor air quality or seasonal allergy outbreaks. This can be particularly advantageous for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations for asthma management, including medication refills and symptom monitoring, should be considered favorably in the score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of asthma management. Asthma can have a significant impact on mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. These mental health challenges can, in turn, exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health support within the Orgas community is crucial. Does the local primary care practice offer on-site mental health services, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health specialists is essential for providing comprehensive care to patients with asthma.

The presence of community resources, such as asthma support groups, educational programs, and access to affordable medication, also contributes to a positive Asthma Score. These resources empower patients to actively manage their condition and improve their quality of life. The availability of these resources can be assessed by researching local health organizations, community centers, and pharmacies.

To construct a comprehensive Asthma Score, all these factors must be considered and weighted appropriately. The physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and community resources all play a role in determining the overall preparedness of the healthcare system to manage asthma effectively. The score should reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care available to residents of ZIP code 25148, specifically in the Orgas community.

The Asthma Score is not simply a numerical value. It is a reflection of the commitment of the local healthcare system to prioritize the health and well-being of individuals with asthma. It is a tool for identifying strengths and weaknesses in the system, and for guiding efforts to improve asthma care. The ultimate goal is to empower patients to live healthier, more fulfilling lives, free from the debilitating effects of this chronic respiratory condition.

The complexity of healthcare data often makes it difficult to visualize and analyze. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Orgas and to map the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can help visualize the data and identify areas of need.