25517, Genoa, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25517, Genoa, West Virginia is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.70 percent of the residents in 25517 has some form of health insurance. 68.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.47 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 25517 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 277 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25517. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 261 health care providers accessible to residents in 25517, Genoa, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Genoa, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25517)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on primary care availability and physician resources within Genoa, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25517), to derive an "Asthma Score" ranking. This score reflects the ease with which residents can access appropriate care for asthma, considering factors beyond simple physician numbers.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible primary care. In Genoa, the presence and distribution of primary care physicians (PCPs) are critical. A low physician-to-patient ratio signals potential challenges. A high ratio, conversely, suggests greater accessibility. However, simply counting physicians isn't enough. The "Asthma Score" must incorporate factors such as the availability of appointments, wait times, and the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, which are vital for many residents.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in asthma care, significantly impact the "Asthma Score." These practices often feature board-certified pulmonologists or PCPs with specialized training in asthma management. They may employ certified asthma educators who provide patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques. Furthermore, these practices frequently integrate evidence-based guidelines for asthma treatment, ensuring patients receive the most up-to-date and effective care. The presence of readily available spirometry testing and peak flow meters within the practice also enhances the "Asthma Score."

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in modern healthcare, especially in rural areas like Genoa. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel, particularly beneficial for those with chronic conditions like asthma. The "Asthma Score" should reflect the availability of telehealth services for asthma management, including virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Practices embracing telemedicine contribute positively to the overall accessibility and quality of asthma care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The "Asthma Score" needs to consider the availability of mental health services within the community and the integration of mental health support into asthma care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who understand the complexities of chronic respiratory illnesses. Practices that screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources enhance the "Asthma Score."

Evaluating the "Asthma Score" requires gathering data from multiple sources. This includes publicly available information on physician directories, insurance provider websites, and local hospital systems. Patient reviews and feedback can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experiences. Furthermore, assessing the availability of asthma-specific programs, such as support groups or educational workshops, contributes to a more comprehensive score.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios requires precise data. Determining the number of PCPs practicing within ZIP Code 25517 and comparing it to the local population is essential. However, the "Asthma Score" must also account for the distribution of these physicians. Are they concentrated in one area, or are they spread throughout the community? This distribution impacts accessibility.

The "Asthma Score" also considers the availability of after-hours care. Asthma attacks can occur at any time, and access to prompt medical attention is critical. Practices offering extended hours, weekend appointments, or on-call services positively influence the "Asthma Score." The presence of an urgent care facility or emergency room within a reasonable distance also contributes to the overall score.

To determine the "Asthma Score," each factor is weighted based on its importance. Physician-to-patient ratios, access to specialized care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of after-hours care are all assigned points. The practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines and the presence of certified asthma educators also contribute to the score. The final score is then calculated, providing a comprehensive assessment of asthma care accessibility and quality in Genoa.

The "Asthma Score" is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in healthcare resources and practices. The score can be used to identify areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing mental health support. The score also helps patients make informed decisions about their healthcare, allowing them to choose practices that best meet their needs.

The "Asthma Score" analysis for Genoa, West Virginia, reveals a complex picture. While the availability of primary care physicians is a starting point, the quality of asthma management depends on various factors. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists or PCPs with specialized training, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of after-hours care are all crucial. By considering these factors, the "Asthma Score" provides a more accurate assessment of healthcare accessibility and quality in the community.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in asthma care, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and community resources, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Genoa and beyond.