25547, Pecks Mill, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25547, Pecks Mill, West Virginia is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25547 has some form of health insurance. 29.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.23 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 25547 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 144 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25547. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 125 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 154 health care providers accessible to residents in 25547, Pecks Mill, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 25547 and Primary Care Availability in Pecks Mill

Analyzing healthcare access, particularly for conditions like asthma, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 25547, encompassing the community of Pecks Mill, West Virginia, to evaluate the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific lens on asthma management. We will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of comprehensive asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. In Pecks Mill, and the surrounding areas of 25547, the ratio likely presents a challenge. Rural communities often face a shortage of primary care physicians, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for asthma. This scarcity puts a strain on existing practices, impacting their ability to provide timely and consistent care. Detailed data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, and potentially the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), would be needed to establish a precise ratio for this specific ZIP code. However, anecdotal evidence and national trends suggest a probable deficit, requiring proactive strategies to improve access.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. While a comprehensive evaluation necessitates on-site inspections and patient surveys, we can infer some aspects from publicly available information. Practices that actively promote asthma education programs, offer extended hours, and employ certified asthma educators would score favorably. These practices demonstrate a commitment to proactive asthma management, going beyond simply prescribing medication. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on asthma control, would be considered leaders in the field. The presence of specialized equipment, such as spirometry machines, is another indicator of a practice's ability to diagnose and monitor asthma effectively.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a solution to geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely. For asthma management, this can include virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms can provide more accessible care, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups. This is particularly beneficial for patients with poorly controlled asthma, who may require more frequent monitoring. The availability of telehealth also allows for quicker access to specialists, who may not be readily available in the immediate area.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of asthma care. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities. Practices that recognize this connection and offer or facilitate access to mental health services are better equipped to provide holistic care. This could include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or the integration of mental health screenings into routine asthma check-ups. Such an approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, leading to improved patient outcomes.

The overall "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 25547 would be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed. The score would be lower if the physician-to-patient ratio is unfavorable, and if the adoption of telemedicine is limited. Practices that are not proactive in asthma education, and that do not provide mental health resources, would also contribute to a lower score. Conversely, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, utilize telemedicine, and integrate mental health services would contribute to a higher score.

The availability of primary care in Pecks Mill is interwoven with the overall asthma score. The fewer the primary care physicians, the more difficult it becomes for patients to receive timely and appropriate care. This shortage directly affects asthma management. Even if practices are excellent, if they are overwhelmed with patients, the quality of care can suffer. Therefore, improving primary care availability is a critical prerequisite for improving asthma outcomes in this community.

Further analysis would require detailed data collection. This would include surveys of local practices, patient interviews, and a review of public health data. Such an investigation would allow for a more precise assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare system. It would also allow for the identification of specific areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and improving access to mental health resources.

The specific challenges in Pecks Mill highlight broader issues in rural healthcare. Limited resources, geographical barriers, and socioeconomic factors can all contribute to disparities in healthcare access. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations.

The effectiveness of asthma management hinges on several factors. Early diagnosis, appropriate medication, patient education, and regular follow-up are essential. The ability to access these elements is directly impacted by the availability and quality of primary care services. In Pecks Mill, and the surrounding areas, the need for improved access to care is apparent.

The assessment of the "Asthma Score" should not be a static exercise. It should be a continuous process of evaluation and improvement. Regular monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and patient outcomes, is essential. This ongoing assessment will help to identify areas where interventions are needed and to track the effectiveness of those interventions. The goal is to create a healthcare system that is responsive to the needs of the community and that provides the best possible care for individuals with asthma.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 25547, including physician locations, practice specializations, and accessibility features, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a more informed assessment of access and availability.