25917, Scarbro, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25917, Scarbro, West Virginia is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 25917 has some form of health insurance. 53.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.38 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 25917 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 392 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25917. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 258 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 373 health care providers accessible to residents in 25917, Scarbro, West Virginia.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Scarbro, WV (ZIP Code 25917)**

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Scarbro, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25917) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, access to resources, and the overall health infrastructure. This analysis will delve into the specifics of physician-to-patient ratios, highlight any standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, explore the presence of mental health resources, and ultimately, provide an Asthma Score ranking.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible primary care. Scarbro, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: a potential shortage of primary care physicians. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires data that may not be readily available publicly. However, we can infer a potential situation based on national trends. Rural areas often have significantly lower ratios compared to urban centers. This means fewer physicians are available to serve a larger population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making it difficult for patients to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of their asthma.

Primary care availability is further impacted by factors like insurance coverage, transportation limitations, and the presence of specialized asthma care providers. The availability of pulmonologists or allergists, specialists crucial for complex asthma cases, is likely limited in this area. This places an even greater burden on primary care physicians to manage a condition that can require specialized expertise.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

Identifying standout practices requires in-depth research, including patient reviews, physician profiles, and the types of services offered. Any practice demonstrating a commitment to asthma care would likely focus on several key areas. This includes providing comprehensive asthma education, developing personalized action plans, and ensuring regular follow-up appointments. They might also offer peak flow meter training and access to nebulizer treatments.

A standout practice might also actively participate in community outreach programs, educating residents about asthma triggers and prevention strategies. They might collaborate with local schools or community centers to provide asthma management workshops. Furthermore, the presence of certified asthma educators within a practice would be a significant indicator of quality care. These educators are specifically trained to help patients understand their condition, manage their medications, and navigate the challenges of living with asthma.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Potential Solution**

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving asthma care in areas with limited access to healthcare providers. Telehealth consultations can enable patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing wait times. This is particularly beneficial for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and symptom management.

The successful adoption of telemedicine requires several key elements. Reliable internet access is crucial, as is the patient's comfort level with technology. Physicians must also be trained in providing telehealth consultations, ensuring they can effectively assess patients remotely. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that can transmit data electronically, would further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management.

**Mental Health Resources: An Often-Overlooked Aspect**

Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. The chronic nature of the condition, the fear of exacerbations, and the limitations on physical activity can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, access to mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive asthma care.

The availability of mental health services in Scarbro requires investigation. Are there therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists in the area? Do primary care physicians screen patients for mental health concerns? Are there resources available to connect patients with mental health support? The integration of mental health services into asthma care can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

**Asthma Score Ranking and Conclusion**

Based on the available information and the potential challenges faced by Scarbro, WV, the Asthma Score ranking is estimated to be **below average**. This assessment is based on the likely limitations in physician-to-patient ratios, potential scarcity of specialists, and the need for improved access to telemedicine and mental health resources. Further research, including direct data collection from local healthcare providers and community members, would be necessary to provide a more precise and comprehensive score.

Improving asthma care in Scarbro requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes efforts to recruit and retain primary care physicians, expand access to telemedicine services, integrate mental health support into asthma management, and promote community-based asthma education programs. Addressing these challenges will improve the quality of life for individuals living with asthma in this community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape, identify physician locations, and analyze the availability of resources within Scarbro and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the power of **CartoChrome maps**. These interactive maps can provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare infrastructure, helping to identify areas where resources are needed most.