25442, Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25442, Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.60 percent of the residents in 25442 has some form of health insurance. 31.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.53 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 25442 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 885 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25442. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 432 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,517 health care providers accessible to residents in 25442, Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia.

The analysis below assesses asthma care within ZIP code 25442, encompassing Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia, focusing on primary care availability and related factors. This assessment aims to provide insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing asthma in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible and competent primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. In Shenandoah Junction, and indeed Jefferson County as a whole, the ratio must be examined. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit appointment availability. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to timely consultations and follow-up care. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) are essential for determining these ratios. This information helps understand the overall capacity of the primary care system to address the needs of the community, including those with asthma.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is critical. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas within 25442, or are they spread out to serve the entire community? The location of practices relative to residential areas, particularly for those with limited transportation options, is a significant factor. A centralized location might be convenient for some, but it could pose a challenge for residents in more remote areas. This geographical analysis helps evaluate how effectively the primary care network serves the diverse needs of the population.

The quality of care also depends on the expertise and experience of the physicians. Are there board-certified pulmonologists or allergists readily available within the primary care network or requiring referrals to specialists? Access to specialists is important for complex cases or for patients who do not respond well to standard treatments. The availability of specialized care significantly impacts the overall effectiveness of asthma management.

Within the primary care practices, several factors contribute to a positive asthma care experience. Practices that integrate asthma management protocols, such as standardized assessment tools and personalized action plans, demonstrate a commitment to quality care. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for better tracking of patient progress, medication adherence, and the coordination of care among different healthcare providers. These practices also often offer patient education materials, including information on triggers, medication usage, and emergency protocols.

Telemedicine adoption is another important consideration. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in rural areas. Does the primary care network in Shenandoah Junction offer telemedicine options for asthma management? This is a crucial factor in improving access to care and enhancing patient convenience.

Mental health resources are also a vital component of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can have a significant impact on mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through referrals, is crucial. Integrated care models that address both physical and mental health needs are particularly beneficial for patients with asthma.

The identification of standout practices is important. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through patient-centered care, advanced technology, and a focus on patient education deserve recognition. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, contributing to a higher standard of care for all patients with asthma. The practices should be assessed based on patient reviews, the use of asthma-specific protocols, and their commitment to patient education.

The analysis should also consider the availability of support services such as asthma education programs, support groups, and community resources. These resources can provide patients with the knowledge and support they need to effectively manage their asthma. The presence of these resources indicates a community-wide commitment to improving asthma care.

The overall "Asthma Score" for the area can be assessed based on the factors mentioned above. This score should reflect the availability, accessibility, and quality of care for individuals with asthma in Shenandoah Junction. The score should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the primary care network, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support services.

To fully understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist offices, and pharmacies, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of access to care.