25670, Delbarton, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25670, Delbarton, West Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.27 percent of the residents in 25670 has some form of health insurance. 68.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.01 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 25670 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 718 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25670. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 754 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 349 health care providers accessible to residents in 25670, Delbarton, West Virginia.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Delbarton, WV (ZIP Code 25670)**

Delbarton, West Virginia, a small community nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 25670, focusing on factors critical to asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, offering insights into the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

The foundation of good asthma management lies in accessible and responsive primary care. In Delbarton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Rural areas often face shortages, and this can significantly impact appointment availability, follow-up care, and overall disease control. While specific, publicly available data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 25670 is limited, data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. These estimates, however, should be used as a baseline, and further research is required to determine the true accessibility of care.

The structure of primary care practices within the ZIP code is also important. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger clinics? Larger practices often have the resources to offer a wider range of services, including specialized asthma education, respiratory therapy, and on-site diagnostic testing. Conversely, smaller practices can provide more personalized care and may be more readily accessible. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a significant advantage, as they can provide essential patient education on medication use, trigger avoidance, and self-management techniques.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly crucial, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with convenient access to consultations, medication refills, and monitoring. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual visits and remote patient monitoring, score higher in an asthma-friendly environment. This is particularly important for asthma patients, who may need frequent follow-up appointments to adjust medication and manage exacerbations.

Mental health resources are a frequently overlooked, yet crucial component of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health specialists, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to mental health support is critical for addressing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with chronic illness.

Specific practices within 25670 may stand out for their asthma management approach. Identifying these “standout” practices requires detailed research, including patient reviews, practice websites, and direct contact with the practices. Factors to consider include: the availability of asthma-specific education, the use of evidence-based asthma guidelines, the availability of same-day appointments for acute exacerbations, and the responsiveness of the practice to patient inquiries. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), also warrant recognition.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Delbarton would be a composite score, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the structure and services offered by primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score could be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating a more asthma-friendly environment. The score would also highlight areas where improvements are needed.

The challenges of healthcare access in Delbarton are compounded by socioeconomic factors. Poverty, limited transportation options, and a lack of insurance coverage can further exacerbate the difficulties faced by asthma patients. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving asthma outcomes. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for creating a supportive environment for asthma patients.

The DHHR and local health departments play a crucial role in providing public health services and resources. These agencies can offer asthma education programs, support groups, and assistance with medication costs. They can also work to address environmental factors that contribute to asthma, such as poor air quality and substandard housing.

The assessment of asthma care in Delbarton must also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. The availability of specialist care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is essential, especially for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity to hospitals and emergency rooms is also a critical factor, as asthma exacerbations can require urgent medical attention.

The analysis of healthcare in Delbarton is an ongoing process. Regular updates are needed to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the addition of new providers, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the implementation of new asthma management strategies. Patient feedback is also essential for evaluating the quality of care and identifying areas for improvement.

The "Asthma Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. By understanding the challenges and opportunities in Delbarton, we can work towards creating a healthcare environment that empowers asthma patients to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Delbarton, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can offer valuable insights into healthcare access and distribution, providing a powerful tool for patients, providers, and policymakers.