25537, Lesage, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25537, Lesage, West Virginia is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.83 percent of the residents in 25537 has some form of health insurance. 40.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.64 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 25537 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 141 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25537. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 307 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,310 health care providers accessible to residents in 25537, Lesage, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Lesage, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25537)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Lesage, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25537) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, all factors impacting an "Asthma Score" for the community. This score, though not a single, quantifiable number, represents the overall accessibility and quality of asthma care available to residents.

The primary challenge in Lesage, and many rural areas, is physician density. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) must be consulted to determine the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists practicing within or immediately adjacent to the 25537 ZIP code. A low ratio suggests potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and specialized care. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management, and increased hospitalizations for asthma exacerbations.

Furthermore, the type of primary care available is important. Are there solo practitioners, or larger group practices? Larger practices often offer advantages, such as extended hours, on-site laboratory services, and a broader range of specialties. The presence of a pulmonologist, or a practice with a strong focus on respiratory health, significantly elevates the Asthma Score. Without a dedicated pulmonologist, patients may need to travel significant distances for specialized care, further hindering access.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires assessing several factors. These include the availability of asthma education programs, the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, provide personalized asthma action plans, and offer regular follow-up appointments demonstrate a commitment to quality asthma management. Reviewing patient testimonials, online reviews, and practice websites can offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in this rural setting. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care for patients who face transportation barriers or live in remote areas. However, telemedicine effectiveness hinges on reliable internet access. Examining the broadband availability within the 25537 ZIP code is essential. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma care model, providing secure video consultations and remote monitoring, would receive a higher score.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and impact treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive Asthma Score. This includes the presence of on-site behavioral health specialists within primary care practices or referrals to mental health providers in the community. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns and offer integrated care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The proximity of mental health services, and the ease of referral, are also crucial.

Assessing the availability of asthma-specific resources, such as support groups or educational materials, also contributes to the overall score. Community outreach programs, partnerships with local schools, and the availability of culturally sensitive asthma education are all indicators of a supportive healthcare environment.

The overall Asthma Score for Lesage, West Virginia (25537) is likely to be impacted by several factors. The low population density, and the potential for limited healthcare infrastructure, may present challenges. A high score would reflect a community with readily accessible PCPs, a strong focus on asthma management, telemedicine capabilities, integrated mental health support, and robust community resources. A lower score would suggest potential barriers to care, such as limited physician availability, lack of specialized services, and a need for improved infrastructure.

Further analysis would involve investigating the specific practices operating in the area. This would include examining their staffing levels, the types of services offered, and their adoption of technology. The DHHR, HRSA, and the West Virginia Board of Medicine are key resources for this information.

The quality of care is also evaluated by patient satisfaction. This is often assessed through surveys, and online reviews. Practices that are committed to patient education and empowerment tend to have higher satisfaction rates.

The presence of asthma-specific programs, such as those focused on environmental control or trigger avoidance, also contributes to the overall quality of care. These programs can help patients manage their asthma more effectively and reduce the frequency of exacerbations.

The integration of telemedicine, while potentially beneficial, requires careful consideration of internet access and patient digital literacy. Practices that offer telemedicine services must ensure that patients have the necessary technology and support to participate effectively.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical factor. Asthma and mental health are closely linked, and patients with asthma are at increased risk of anxiety and depression. Practices that provide mental health services, or that have strong referral networks, are better equipped to support their patients.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score is a reflection of the community's ability to provide comprehensive, accessible, and high-quality asthma care. It is a dynamic measure that can be improved through strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and a commitment to patient-centered care.
The analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of asthma care in Lesage, West Virginia. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance the health and well-being of residents.

For a more detailed visual representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and demographic data within Lesage, West Virginia (25537), consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, enabling a deeper understanding of the accessibility and availability of care.