25678, Matewan, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25678, Matewan, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.30 percent of the residents in 25678 has some form of health insurance. 66.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.92 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 25678 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 264 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25678. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 267 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 323 health care providers accessible to residents in 25678, Matewan, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Matewan, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25678)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within Matewan, West Virginia (ZIP code 25678) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the number of physicians. This analysis, therefore, delves into physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive asthma care ecosystem. The goal is to provide a nuanced 'Asthma Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape.

Matewan, a small town in Mingo County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access, particularly for specialized care. The limited population density and geographic isolation contribute to potential disparities in the availability of medical professionals. The physician-to-patient ratio in Matewan is likely lower than the national average, especially for specialists like pulmonologists and allergists who are directly involved in asthma management. This scarcity necessitates a careful evaluation of how existing resources are utilized and how effectively patients can access the care they need.

The 'Asthma Score' for Matewan is not simply a number but a complex evaluation. It considers the proximity of primary care physicians, the presence of any dedicated asthma clinics, and the availability of ancillary services like respiratory therapists and pharmacists. The score also factors in patient wait times for appointments, the range of diagnostic tools available (like spirometry), and the educational resources provided to patients regarding asthma management. A high score would indicate readily accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. A low score would suggest significant challenges in accessing timely and effective asthma treatment.

Identifying 'standout practices' is essential. While the overall physician pool might be limited, some primary care practices may demonstrate a commitment to asthma care. These practices could be recognized for their proactive approach to asthma management, including regular patient education sessions, the development of personalized asthma action plans, and the consistent monitoring of patient outcomes. Practices that actively participate in asthma-related research or quality improvement initiatives would also be considered favorably. Furthermore, the availability of certified asthma educators within a practice significantly enhances its score.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor, particularly in a geographically isolated area like Matewan. Telemedicine can bridge the gap created by limited in-person access to specialists. Practices that offer virtual consultations for asthma management, medication refills, and follow-up appointments receive a higher score. The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the comfort level of both physicians and patients with technology, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care workflow. The ability to monitor patients remotely, using wearable devices or home spirometry, further enhances the value of telemedicine.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is crucial in asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The 'Asthma Score' reflects the availability of mental health support services within the primary care practices or through referrals to external providers. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns and provide access to counseling or psychiatric services receive a higher score. The integration of mental health into asthma management recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and psychological health.

The availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is a significant factor. If patients in Matewan need to travel long distances to see a specialist, this negatively impacts the 'Asthma Score.' The presence of a pulmonologist or allergist within a reasonable driving distance (e.g., within the county or a neighboring county) would significantly improve the score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists is also crucial. Effective communication and information sharing between providers ensure that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care.

The 'Asthma Score' also considers the availability of patient education materials. Asthma management requires patient participation. Practices that provide patients with written materials, online resources, and educational sessions on asthma triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques receive a higher score. The ability of patients to actively participate in their care is essential for achieving optimal asthma control.

The availability of emergency care services is another crucial aspect. The proximity of an emergency room equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is essential. The 'Asthma Score' considers the accessibility of emergency services, including ambulance response times and the availability of respiratory therapists in the emergency room. The ability to quickly and effectively treat asthma emergencies is critical for patient safety.

The local pharmacy's role in asthma care cannot be overstated. The availability of asthma medications, the pharmacist's knowledge of asthma medications, and the pharmacist's ability to provide patient counseling on medication use all contribute to the 'Asthma Score.' Practices that collaborate with local pharmacies to ensure medication adherence and provide patient education receive a higher score.

In conclusion, the 'Asthma Score' for Matewan, West Virginia, is likely to be influenced by several factors. The limited physician pool, the geographic isolation, and the potential lack of specialized care could negatively impact the score. However, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the commitment of primary care practices to asthma management can mitigate these challenges. The score reflects the overall accessibility, comprehensiveness, and patient-centeredness of asthma care in the area. The availability of educational resources, emergency services, and pharmacy support also plays a crucial role.

To visualize and further analyze the data discussed, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and access to resources. This visual representation can help to identify gaps in care and opportunities for improvement. CartoChrome maps can provide a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape in Matewan and help to inform decisions about resource allocation and healthcare delivery.