25702, Huntington, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25702, Huntington, West Virginia is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.37 percent of the residents in 25702 has some form of health insurance. 58.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.09 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 25702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,390 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25702. An estimate of 10 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,322 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,334 health care providers accessible to residents in 25702, Huntington, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Huntington, WV (ZIP Code 25702)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 25702 in Huntington, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when focusing on asthma management. This analysis will delve into key factors influencing an “Asthma Score” for the area, encompassing physician availability, quality of care, and access to supportive resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking effective asthma management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. Determining the precise ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) within 25702 and the surrounding Huntington area is essential. This data, ideally sourced from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau, reveals the availability of general practitioners who serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, directly impacting asthma control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. The analysis must also consider the number of pulmonologists and allergists specializing in respiratory conditions within the area. Their availability significantly impacts the ability of patients to receive specialized care, including advanced diagnostic testing and treatment plans.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by local physicians is paramount. This requires evaluating practices based on several metrics. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction. Furthermore, the analysis should incorporate data on physician board certifications and specializations, highlighting those with expertise in asthma management. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for asthma treatment, such as those from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is another crucial indicator of quality. Practices that adhere to these guidelines are more likely to provide optimal care.

Standout practices within 25702 and Huntington should be identified. These practices could be recognized for their exceptional patient care, innovative approaches to asthma management, or commitment to patient education. This could include practices that offer comprehensive asthma action plans, regular follow-up appointments, and readily available resources for patients. Identifying these standout practices provides valuable information for residents seeking the best possible care. These practices should also be assessed for their adoption of technology.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in improving access to care, especially for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. The analysis must assess which practices in the area offer telemedicine consultations, allowing patients to receive care remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in rural areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate more frequent monitoring of asthma symptoms and medication adherence. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management.

Mental health resources play a crucial role in asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. The analysis must investigate the availability of mental health services within the Huntington area, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. It is important to determine if local primary care practices have established relationships with mental health professionals to facilitate referrals for patients who need them. The availability of support groups and educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of asthma is also critical.

The availability of asthma education programs is another key component of the Asthma Score. These programs empower patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their condition effectively. The analysis should assess the availability of educational resources provided by local practices, hospitals, and community organizations. This includes information on asthma triggers, medication management, inhaler techniques, and emergency preparedness. The presence of certified asthma educators within the area is a significant asset, as they can provide personalized guidance and support to patients.

Medication accessibility is a critical consideration. The analysis must assess the proximity of pharmacies to medical practices and the availability of a wide range of asthma medications, including both generic and brand-name options. The analysis should also consider the affordability of medications, including the availability of patient assistance programs and resources for those who struggle to afford their prescriptions. The existence of a robust pharmacy network that can quickly and efficiently fill prescriptions is essential for ensuring that patients have access to the medications they need to control their asthma.

Emergency room (ER) utilization rates for asthma-related exacerbations are a key indicator of the effectiveness of asthma management in the area. High ER utilization rates suggest that patients are not adequately controlling their asthma, potentially due to poor access to care, inadequate medication management, or a lack of patient education. The analysis should examine ER utilization data for asthma-related visits within 25702 and the surrounding area. This data can help identify areas where improvements are needed in terms of preventative care and patient education.

The overall infrastructure for asthma management within the Huntington area should be assessed. This includes the availability of specialized equipment, such as pulmonary function testing (PFT) machines, and the presence of a well-coordinated healthcare system that facilitates communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. The analysis should also consider the community's awareness of asthma and its impact.

The presence of community-based initiatives, such as asthma awareness campaigns and programs that promote healthy living, can significantly improve asthma outcomes. The analysis should identify any such initiatives in the Huntington area and assess their effectiveness in educating the public about asthma and promoting healthy behaviors. Collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations is essential for creating a supportive environment for asthma patients.

Finally, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact asthma outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and inadequate housing conditions can all contribute to poor asthma control. The analysis should assess the prevalence of these factors within 25702 and the surrounding area and consider their potential impact on asthma management. Addressing these socioeconomic disparities is crucial for improving asthma outcomes for all residents.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for 25702 and the surrounding Huntington area requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, quality of care, access to resources, and community support. By considering all these factors, a more accurate picture of asthma management capabilities in the region can be established. This analysis provides a starting point for identifying areas of strength and weakness and for developing strategies to improve asthma outcomes for all residents.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for analyzing and visualizing geographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Huntington and beyond.