25259, Looneyville, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25259, Looneyville, West Virginia is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.97 percent of the residents in 25259 has some form of health insurance. 68.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.09 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 25259 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 216 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25259. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 242 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32 health care providers accessible to residents in 25259, Looneyville, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Looneyville, WV (ZIP Code 25259)

Looneyville, West Virginia, a community nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when evaluating its healthcare landscape, particularly concerning asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure within ZIP code 25259, providing an "Asthma Score" assessment.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Looneyville is a crucial metric. Determining the exact ratio requires gathering data on the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and the total population. Due to the rural nature of the area, it's highly probable that the ratio is less favorable compared to urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for asthma sufferers. Furthermore, it can strain the existing primary care physicians, making it difficult for them to dedicate sufficient time to each patient's specific needs, including asthma management.

Primary care availability is not simply about the number of doctors; it also encompasses the types of practices available. Are there solo practitioners, or are there group practices? Do these practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, which are often utilized in rural communities? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) is a positive indicator, as these facilities often provide comprehensive care, including asthma management, at reduced costs. The Asthma Score would be positively impacted by the existence of these resources.

Identifying standout practices within Looneyville requires a closer look. This includes evaluating the quality of care offered, patient satisfaction, and the availability of specialized asthma services. Are there practices that actively participate in asthma education programs? Do they offer peak flow meter training and personalized asthma action plans? Do they have dedicated staff trained in asthma management? Practices that prioritize patient education and proactive management strategies would contribute to a higher Asthma Score.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in Looneyville. Given the geographical challenges and potential transportation limitations, telemedicine can bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. The Asthma Score would be elevated if practices offer telemedicine options, particularly for follow-up appointments and symptom management. This is especially important for patients with poorly controlled asthma, who may require frequent monitoring.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The Asthma Score must consider the availability of mental health services within the community. Are there therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists available to support patients with asthma? Do primary care practices have integrated behavioral health services? The presence of these resources, or the ability to easily refer patients to them, is essential for holistic asthma care.

Beyond these factors, the Asthma Score should consider the availability of asthma-specific resources within the community. This includes access to pharmacies that carry asthma medications, support groups for asthma patients and their families, and educational materials about asthma triggers and management strategies. The presence of these resources contributes to a more comprehensive and supportive healthcare environment for asthma sufferers.

The overall Asthma Score for Looneyville, WV (ZIP Code 25259) is likely to be moderate to low, given the challenges inherent in rural healthcare settings. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized asthma services, and the integration of mental health resources are areas that likely need improvement. Telemedicine adoption could be a crucial factor in improving access to care. The community's ability to address these challenges will directly impact the health outcomes of asthma patients.

To accurately assess the Asthma Score, a comprehensive data collection process is necessary. This involves gathering information on the number of primary care physicians, the types of practices, the availability of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the existence of asthma-specific resources. This data can then be used to develop a scoring system that reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure within the ZIP code.

The Asthma Score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing high-quality asthma care. By identifying areas for improvement, the community can work towards creating a healthier environment for all residents. This includes advocating for increased access to primary care, promoting telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health services, and providing asthma education and support.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Looneyville, including physician locations, practice types, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of geospatial analysis. Utilize CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in ZIP code 25259. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing for informed decision-making and targeted interventions to improve asthma care.