25530, Kenova, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25530, Kenova, West Virginia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.99 percent of the residents in 25530 has some form of health insurance. 53.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.49 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 25530 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,391 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25530. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,321 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 966 health care providers accessible to residents in 25530, Kenova, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Kenova, WV (ZIP Code 25530)

Kenova, West Virginia, nestled in the Appalachian foothills, presents a unique healthcare landscape, especially when considering asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on asthma-specific resources and physician accessibility within ZIP code 25530. We will evaluate the "Asthma Score" for local doctors, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support, crucial elements for comprehensive asthma care.

The initial challenge in Kenova is the potential for limited primary care availability. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, impacting the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, where a single doctor is responsible for a large patient population, can strain resources and potentially decrease the time dedicated to each patient, affecting asthma management. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, requires regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education. Limited access to primary care can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment plans, and increased emergency room visits.

To determine an Asthma Score, we must examine the practices within the ZIP code. Are there enough primary care physicians (PCPs) and family medicine doctors? Are there any pulmonologists or specialists in the area, or must patients travel for specialized care? The presence of specialists significantly improves the Asthma Score. They provide expert consultation, advanced diagnostic tools, and targeted treatment options.

Beyond physician numbers, the characteristics of each practice are crucial. Does the practice prioritize asthma management? Do they have dedicated asthma educators or nurses? Do they follow the latest asthma guidelines, such as those established by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer personalized asthma action plans, and readily provide inhaler demonstrations and proper technique instruction would receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the Asthma Score. In a rural setting like Kenova, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, connecting patients with specialists and providing convenient follow-up appointments. Practices utilizing telemedicine for asthma management would be rated higher. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, medication adjustments, and patient education, thereby improving asthma control and reducing hospitalizations.

Mental health resources are another critical element. Asthma can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety. The Asthma Score will incorporate the availability of mental health support within the practice or through referrals. Practices that recognize the link between mental health and asthma and offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would receive a higher score.

Standout practices within the ZIP code would demonstrate excellence in several areas. They may have a low patient-to-physician ratio, ensuring adequate time for each patient. They may have a dedicated asthma education program, providing patients with the knowledge and skills to manage their condition effectively. They may have embraced telemedicine, making it easier for patients to access care. They might integrate mental health services or have strong referral relationships with mental health providers. These practices would serve as models for asthma management in Kenova.

Specific data, such as the exact physician-to-patient ratio for the area, the number of specialists, and the percentage of practices offering telemedicine, would be essential for a precise Asthma Score. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and local healthcare networks would be utilized to gather this information. This data would be further refined by considering patient reviews, practice websites, and direct contact with the practices themselves.

The Asthma Score would be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Kenova. It would be a valuable tool for patients, allowing them to make informed decisions about their care. It would also be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, highlighting areas for improvement and encouraging the adoption of best practices.

The challenges in Kenova are not unique to this area. Many rural communities face similar issues regarding healthcare access. The Asthma Score analysis can serve as a template for assessing asthma care in other areas. By identifying the specific needs and resources available, healthcare providers can tailor their services to meet the unique challenges of their communities.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to improve asthma care in Kenova. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, healthcare providers can work together to create a more patient-centered and effective approach to asthma management. This involves improving physician-to-patient ratios, increasing the adoption of telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and promoting patient education.

The data used in this analysis is dynamic and subject to change. Physician availability, practice characteristics, and the adoption of new technologies are constantly evolving. Therefore, it is essential to update the Asthma Score regularly to reflect the current state of the healthcare landscape.

The Asthma Score is more than just a number. It is a reflection of the commitment of healthcare providers to the well-being of their patients. It is a call to action to improve asthma care in Kenova and beyond.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kenova, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.