25164, Procious, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25164, Procious, West Virginia is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.99 percent of the residents in 25164 has some form of health insurance. 58.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.75 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 25164 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 260 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25164. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 227 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12 health care providers accessible to residents in 25164, Procious, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25164 & Procious Primary Care

This analysis assesses the quality of asthma care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 25164, focusing on the Procious area. We will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of asthma management, and the integration of modern healthcare practices like telemedicine and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of life for residents managing asthma.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on accessible and qualified primary care physicians. In Procious, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, allowing for more proactive management and quicker responses to exacerbations. This ratio needs to be considered against the overall health of the population, including the prevalence of asthma and other chronic conditions, and the demographics of the area.

Analyzing the specific practices within 25164 requires a deeper dive into their operational characteristics. We need to consider the number of board-certified physicians specializing in internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics. These specialties are key in providing comprehensive primary care, including asthma management. A practice's commitment to continuous professional development, specifically in asthma care, is another critical factor. Are physicians actively pursuing continuing medical education (CME) credits related to asthma guidelines and best practices? This demonstrates a commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in treatment and management.

Standout practices will demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma management. This includes implementing standardized protocols for asthma assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, aligned with national guidelines. They might utilize spirometry to measure lung function and regularly review patient inhaler technique. Furthermore, a strong emphasis on patient education is vital. Practices should provide comprehensive information about asthma triggers, medication usage, and emergency action plans. The availability of asthma educators, nurses, or respiratory therapists within the practice significantly enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers remote consultations, medication refills, and monitoring of asthma symptoms. This can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telemedicine services can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, freeing up time for both patients and physicians. The ability to remotely monitor peak flow meters or other respiratory devices can also provide valuable insights into a patient's condition.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house counselors or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Screening for mental health conditions, providing resources for stress management, and coordinating care with mental health professionals are crucial for improving patient outcomes. This integration is particularly important in areas like Procious, where access to specialized mental health services might be limited.

The availability of after-hours care is another important factor. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and access to prompt medical attention is crucial. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or on-call physicians provide a valuable service. This can prevent unnecessary trips to the emergency room and ensure patients receive timely treatment. The existence of a dedicated asthma hotline or a readily accessible on-call physician can provide peace of mind for patients and their families.

Evaluating the quality of asthma care also involves analyzing patient outcomes. This includes tracking metrics such as the number of asthma-related hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and missed school or work days. Practices that actively monitor these outcomes and implement strategies to reduce them demonstrate a commitment to improving patient health. This data can be used to identify areas for improvement and to measure the effectiveness of interventions.

In assessing the overall healthcare landscape in 25164, it's essential to consider the social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and environmental conditions can significantly impact asthma management. Practices that are aware of these factors and provide resources to address them demonstrate a commitment to health equity. This might involve connecting patients with social services, providing transportation assistance, or advocating for improved environmental conditions.

The analysis of primary care availability in Procious should also consider the presence of specialized services, such as pulmonologists or allergists. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense in asthma management, access to specialists is crucial for patients with complex or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists are all important factors.

Ultimately, improving asthma care in 25164 requires a collaborative effort. Primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, community organizations, and patients must work together to create a comprehensive and patient-centered healthcare system. This includes addressing the challenges of physician shortages, improving access to telemedicine and mental health services, and promoting patient education and self-management.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 25164 and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to explore and analyze healthcare data, identify areas with limited access to care, and visualize the impact of social determinants of health. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area.