25503, Ashton, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25503, Ashton, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25503 has some form of health insurance. 53.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.79 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 25503 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 356 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25503. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 58 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 926 health care providers accessible to residents in 25503, Ashton, West Virginia.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Ashton (ZIP Code 25503)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within Ashton, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25503) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) accessible to residents, evaluating the resources available to manage asthma, and understanding the adoption of modern healthcare tools. The goal is to provide an 'Asthma Score' analysis that reflects the overall ease of access to quality asthma care. This analysis will consider several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ashton.

The first critical element in evaluating asthma care is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, often leads to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. While precise figures for ZIP Code 25503 are difficult to obtain without proprietary data, publicly available resources can provide estimates. Analyzing the population of Ashton and comparing it to the number of practicing PCPs in the area gives a preliminary understanding. The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is also crucial. A higher concentration of specialists, even if they are outside of the immediate area, can indicate a stronger network of care for asthma patients.

Beyond the raw numbers, identifying standout practices is essential. These practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through various means. They might have specialized asthma clinics, employ certified asthma educators, or offer comprehensive asthma action plans. These plans are essential for empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. Practices that actively participate in asthma-related research or community outreach programs also warrant recognition. The quality of care is often reflected in patient satisfaction scores, which can be indicative of a practice's commitment to patient well-being.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor in the asthma score analysis. Telemedicine offers a convenient way for patients to receive care, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and online educational resources are likely to receive higher scores. Telemedicine can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for emergency room visits. The ability to connect with specialists remotely can also be beneficial for patients in areas with limited access to specialized care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma care, but they play a significant role in patient well-being. Asthma can be a stressful condition, and the anxiety associated with it can exacerbate symptoms. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This might include providing access to therapists, support groups, or educational materials on stress management. The presence of mental health professionals within the practice or readily available referrals to external services can significantly improve the overall quality of care.

Evaluating the availability of asthma medications and equipment is also necessary. The ability to obtain necessary medications promptly is vital for managing asthma effectively. Practices that offer in-house pharmacies or have strong relationships with local pharmacies can facilitate medication access. The availability of equipment such as peak flow meters and nebulizers is also important. Providing patients with the tools they need to monitor and manage their asthma at home can improve their overall health outcomes.

Furthermore, the presence of community resources that support asthma management is a factor. This includes educational programs offered by local health departments or non-profit organizations. These programs can provide patients with valuable information about asthma triggers, proper medication use, and self-management techniques. Community support groups can also provide a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation. The availability of these resources can improve the overall asthma score.

The 'Asthma Score' itself, as a concept, is a hypothetical composite measure. It would ideally incorporate all the factors discussed above, weighted according to their relative importance. For instance, physician-to-patient ratio might account for a certain percentage, while telemedicine adoption accounts for another. The final score would provide a numerical representation of the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care in Ashton. This score would be more of an indicator than a definitive ranking.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care in Ashton (ZIP Code 25503) requires a comprehensive analysis. The 'Asthma Score' should reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of medications and equipment. The availability of community resources, such as educational programs and support groups, also impacts the score. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Ashton and can be used to identify areas for improvement.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of healthcare resources in Ashton and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.