26101, Parkersburg, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26101, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.51 percent of the residents in 26101 has some form of health insurance. 54.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.58 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 26101 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,516 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26101. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,860 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,006 health care providers accessible to residents in 26101, Parkersburg, West Virginia.

The analysis of asthma care within ZIP code 26101, encompassing Parkersburg, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the quality of care available, focusing on factors impacting asthma management, including physician availability, the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support, all within the context of the local healthcare landscape. A comprehensive ‘Asthma Score’ analysis, though not a formal numerical score, will rank the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the system.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management is access to qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). In Parkersburg, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical determinant of care quality. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent per patient, and potentially compromised asthma control. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of PCPs in 26101, and indeed the broader Wood County area, is a significant concern. This scarcity can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, who are often at higher risk of asthma exacerbations.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, leaving other parts of Parkersburg underserved? Are there enough pediatricians and pulmonologists specializing in asthma care? The ‘Asthma Score’ must consider the geographic accessibility of healthcare providers, ensuring that patients can easily reach medical professionals. This includes evaluating the availability of public transportation, the proximity of clinics to residential areas, and the presence of specialized asthma clinics.

Standout practices within 26101 can significantly elevate the overall ‘Asthma Score’. These practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care. They might be characterized by several key features. First, they employ evidence-based asthma management protocols, adhering to national guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and patient education. Second, they prioritize patient education, providing comprehensive information about asthma triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques. Third, they offer robust follow-up care, including regular check-ups, medication reviews, and personalized asthma action plans. Fourth, they actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, continuously monitoring and improving their asthma care processes.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve the ‘Asthma Score’ in Parkersburg. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with limited mobility. The ‘Asthma Score’ should assess the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for asthma management. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and medication refills. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance asthma control.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical factor in the ‘Asthma Score’ analysis. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common among asthma sufferers, and these mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and reduce adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the ‘Asthma Score’ must consider the availability of mental health support for asthma patients in Parkersburg. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health screening into asthma care. Practices that prioritize mental health support can improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall quality of life for asthma sufferers.

To further refine the ‘Asthma Score’, we must delve into the specifics of each practice. Are they accepting new patients? What insurance plans do they accept? What are their patient satisfaction ratings? Do they offer evening or weekend appointments? Do they have dedicated asthma educators or respiratory therapists on staff? These details are crucial in assessing the practicality and accessibility of asthma care in 26101.

The ‘Asthma Score’ analysis also needs to consider the availability of emergency care resources. Asthma exacerbations can be life-threatening, and prompt access to emergency medical services is essential. The analysis should evaluate the proximity of hospitals and urgent care centers to residential areas, the availability of asthma-specific emergency protocols, and the training of emergency medical personnel in asthma management.

In conclusion, the ‘Asthma Score’ for asthma care in ZIP code 26101, Parkersburg, is a complex assessment. It hinges on physician availability, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, and the availability of emergency care. While a precise numerical score is challenging to generate without in-depth data, a thorough analysis reveals the strengths and weaknesses of the system. Addressing the identified shortcomings, particularly in physician access and mental health support, is crucial to improving asthma care in Parkersburg.

For a visual representation of physician locations, patient demographics, and related data, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. They can provide a spatial understanding of healthcare accessibility, allowing you to identify areas of need and visualize the landscape of asthma care in Parkersburg.