25214, Winifrede, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25214, Winifrede, West Virginia is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.58 percent of the residents in 25214 has some form of health insurance. 41.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.13 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 25214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 291 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25214. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 53 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 156 health care providers accessible to residents in 25214, Winifrede, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25214 & Primary Care in Winifrede

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 25214, encompassing the Winifrede community, with a particular emphasis on asthma management and primary care availability. We will attempt to construct an "Asthma Score" based on various factors, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities for residents.

The foundation of any effective asthma management strategy lies in the availability of qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in Winifrede is a crucial starting point. Unfortunately, precise, up-to-the-minute data on this ratio is difficult to obtain publicly, as it fluctuates with physician staffing, population changes, and insurance participation. However, we can infer potential challenges. Rural areas often face shortages, and this could impact the timely diagnosis and treatment of asthma. This means residents may have to travel further for appointments, potentially delaying care and exacerbating asthma symptoms, particularly during acute episodes.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This encompasses the experience and training of the physicians, their adherence to asthma guidelines, and their ability to provide comprehensive care. Asthma management necessitates more than just prescribing medication. It demands patient education on triggers, proper inhaler technique, and the development of a personalized asthma action plan. The "Asthma Score" would consider the percentage of PCPs in the area who routinely provide these services.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 25214 is critical. These practices, if they exist, likely demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive asthma management. This would involve looking for practices that: utilize electronic health records effectively to track asthma control; offer convenient appointment scheduling; and have staff trained to assist patients with insurance and medication access. Researching online reviews and patient testimonials could help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telehealth can be a game-changer in rural areas, bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care. For asthma patients, virtual consultations can facilitate medication adjustments, monitor symptoms, and provide education. The "Asthma Score" would reflect the availability of telemedicine options for primary care and specialist consultations within the area. This includes assessing the types of telehealth services offered (e.g., video visits, phone consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients.

The presence of mental health resources is also crucial. Asthma, like any chronic illness, can significantly impact mental well-being. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities. The "Asthma Score" must consider the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the community or nearby. This includes evaluating the proximity of these resources, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their ability to collaborate with primary care physicians to provide integrated care.

Furthermore, access to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, is essential for managing severe asthma cases. The "Asthma Score" should reflect the availability of these specialists within a reasonable driving distance. This includes assessing appointment wait times and the specialist's expertise in treating asthma. The lack of specialists can force patients to travel significant distances, adding to the burden of managing their condition.

Another factor impacting the "Asthma Score" is the availability of community resources. Support groups, asthma education programs, and access to affordable medications all contribute to improved asthma control. The analysis should investigate the presence of these resources within Winifrede or the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the accessibility of pharmacies, the availability of financial assistance programs for medications, and the presence of community health workers who can provide support and education to patients.

Environmental factors also play a role. Air quality, exposure to allergens, and housing conditions can significantly impact asthma control. While difficult to quantify precisely, the "Asthma Score" could incorporate data on local air quality and the prevalence of common allergens in the area. It could also consider the availability of resources to address housing-related asthma triggers, such as mold remediation programs.

Finally, the "Asthma Score" should be dynamic, reflecting ongoing changes in the healthcare landscape. This requires continuous monitoring of physician staffing, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of community resources. The score should also be regularly updated to reflect changes in best practices for asthma management.

Creating a comprehensive "Asthma Score" for ZIP code 25214 is a complex undertaking, requiring the integration of multiple data points. However, by carefully analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, assessing mental health resources, and considering environmental factors, a more accurate picture of asthma care accessibility and quality can be constructed.

For a more visual and interactive representation of healthcare data, including physician locations, specialist availability, and community resource locations, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. Visualizing this data can provide valuable insights into healthcare disparities and guide efforts to improve asthma care in Winifrede and beyond.