25690, Ragland, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25690, Ragland, West Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.05 percent of the residents in 25690 has some form of health insurance. 53.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 31.24 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 25690 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 295 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25690. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 119 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 222 health care providers accessible to residents in 25690, Ragland, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Ragland, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25690)

Ragland, West Virginia, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Analyzing the "Asthma Score" for doctors within ZIP code 25690 and assessing primary care availability in this rural community requires a nuanced approach, considering the region's socioeconomic factors, environmental influences, and access to specialized care. This analysis delves into physician-to-patient ratios, highlights notable practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and explores the availability of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive picture of asthma care accessibility in Ragland.

The cornerstone of asthma management is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Ragland, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. The specific ratio for 25690 requires investigation, but generally, rural areas face shortages compared to urban centers. A low ratio signifies fewer doctors to serve a potentially dispersed population, increasing wait times for appointments and potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This scarcity impacts preventative care, crucial for asthma management. Regular check-ups, medication reviews, and patient education are essential components of controlling the condition.

Evaluating the "Asthma Score" necessitates examining the quality of care provided by the available PCPs. This includes their experience in treating asthma, their adherence to established asthma guidelines (such as those published by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program), and their ability to provide comprehensive care. This encompasses not only medication prescriptions but also patient education on triggers, inhaler techniques, and action plans.

Identifying standout practices within 25690 requires a deeper dive. Are there any clinics or individual physicians recognized for their expertise in asthma management? Do they offer specialized services, such as pulmonary function testing (PFTs) or allergy testing? Perhaps some practices have implemented innovative approaches to patient care, like asthma education programs or support groups. Researching patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in rural settings like Ragland. Telemedicine bridges geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists or receive follow-up care remotely. Does the area's primary care infrastructure embrace telemedicine for asthma management? This could involve virtual consultations with pulmonologists, remote monitoring of peak flow readings, or online asthma education programs. The availability of reliable internet access, however, remains a significant challenge in many Appalachian communities, potentially limiting the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they are critical. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The availability of mental health services within 25690 is, therefore, a vital component of the "Asthma Score." Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, accessible to patients? Do PCPs screen for mental health issues and make appropriate referrals? Integrated care, where mental health services are offered alongside medical care, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The "Asthma Score" also considers the availability of resources beyond direct medical care. Are there community programs that support asthma patients, such as asthma camps for children or support groups for adults? Does the local health department offer educational materials or resources on asthma management and environmental control? The presence of these resources reflects a commitment to holistic patient care.

Environmental factors play a crucial role in asthma management. Ragland's location in the Appalachian region may expose residents to specific environmental triggers, such as mold, dust mites, and seasonal allergens. The "Asthma Score" should, therefore, evaluate the community's efforts to address environmental health concerns. This could include initiatives to improve housing conditions, promote healthy indoor environments, and educate residents about trigger avoidance.

Medication access is another key element. The affordability and accessibility of asthma medications are crucial for patients. Does the area have pharmacies that offer affordable medications? Are there programs to help patients afford their medications, such as patient assistance programs or government subsidies? The "Asthma Score" must consider these factors to ensure that patients can access the medications they need to control their asthma.

Furthermore, evaluating the "Asthma Score" requires assessing the overall health literacy of the community. Are there educational programs to help patients understand their asthma and how to manage it? Are materials available in multiple languages to ensure that all residents can access the information they need? Health literacy is essential for patients to actively participate in their care and make informed decisions about their health.

Finally, the "Asthma Score" should consider the responsiveness of the healthcare system to patient needs. Are there systems in place to ensure that patients receive timely appointments, prompt medication refills, and effective communication from their healthcare providers? Patient satisfaction surveys and feedback mechanisms can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and areas for improvement.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP code 25690 and evaluating primary care availability in Ragland requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates considering physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. It also involves assessing environmental factors, medication access, health literacy, and the responsiveness of the healthcare system. This comprehensive analysis will paint a more accurate picture of asthma care accessibility in this rural community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ragland and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to mental health services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can help you analyze and visualize complex healthcare data, providing valuable insights for improving asthma care in the community.