25938, Victor, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 25938, Victor, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.01 percent of the residents in 25938 has some form of health insurance. 57.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.14 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 25938 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 265 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25938. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 292 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 307 health care providers accessible to residents in 25938, Victor, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25938 and Primary Care in Victor, WV

Analyzing healthcare access and quality for asthma sufferers in Victor, West Virginia, and the surrounding ZIP code 25938 requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into key metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment. The goal is to paint a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The first critical factor is physician availability. In a rural area like Victor, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a significant concern. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, can create bottlenecks in access to care. Long wait times for appointments, limited availability for follow-up visits, and the potential for delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments can negatively impact asthma management. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 25938 is crucial. National averages provide a benchmark, but local conditions, including the presence of seasonal residents or tourists, can skew these figures.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and scope of primary care practices are vital. Are the PCPs in Victor equipped to effectively manage asthma? Do they have experience treating patients with varying levels of severity? Do they offer comprehensive asthma action plans, patient education materials, and readily available inhalers and medications? Practices that prioritize patient education, regular monitoring of lung function (using spirometry, for example), and proactive management of asthma triggers are likely to score higher. The presence of registered nurses or respiratory therapists within a practice can also significantly enhance the quality of asthma care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to healthcare. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Victor is a critical factor. Telehealth consultations can enable patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and symptom management guidance. This can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for patients with well-controlled asthma. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma care.

Asthma is often linked to mental health challenges. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to emotional distress. The availability of mental health resources within the Victor healthcare system is therefore a crucial component of the "Asthma Score." Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists, available to provide counseling or medication management? Are these services integrated into the primary care practices, or are referrals readily available? The ability to address the psychological aspects of asthma is essential for comprehensive patient care.

Specific practices within ZIP code 25938 warrant individual scrutiny. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care, whether through specialized training, innovative treatment approaches, or patient-centered care models, is essential. Examining patient reviews, evaluating the availability of asthma-specific services, and assessing the integration of technology can help identify standout practices. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, partner with community organizations, or offer extended hours or weekend appointments can also be considered exemplary.

The "Asthma Score" for Victor will be influenced by the accessibility of specialist care. The availability of pulmonologists and allergists within a reasonable driving distance is crucial for patients with more severe or complex asthma. The ability to quickly access specialist expertise for diagnosis, treatment adjustments, and advanced therapies is a significant factor in managing the disease effectively. The presence of local pharmacies that stock a wide range of asthma medications and offer convenient refill services is also a consideration.

The infrastructure supporting asthma care is also important. Are there local emergency rooms equipped to handle asthma exacerbations? Is there a strong network of emergency medical services (EMS) that can quickly respond to asthma emergencies? The presence of support groups or asthma education programs within the community can also contribute to a positive "Asthma Score." These resources provide patients with valuable support, education, and a sense of community.

The assessment must also account for the socioeconomic factors that can influence asthma outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to health insurance, and substandard housing conditions can all contribute to poorer asthma control. The "Asthma Score" should consider the availability of resources to address these social determinants of health, such as assistance programs for medication costs or housing improvements.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Victor, WV, and ZIP code 25938 will be a composite measure reflecting the interplay of these factors. It will be a nuanced assessment, acknowledging the challenges of providing healthcare in a rural environment while highlighting the strengths and opportunities for improvement. The analysis should be viewed as a starting point for further investigation and action.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Victor, WV, and ZIP code 25938, and to gain a deeper understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. They can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, allowing you to analyze the geographic accessibility of care and identify potential areas for improvement.