26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 26104 has some form of health insurance. 45.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.43 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 26104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,514 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26104. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,613 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,017 health care providers accessible to residents in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia.

Asthma management within ZIP code 26104, encompassing Parkersburg, West Virginia, presents a complex challenge. An 'Asthma Score' analysis, evaluating the quality and accessibility of asthma care, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, practice quality, and the integration of innovative healthcare solutions. This analysis will also examine the availability of primary care services, a crucial component of comprehensive asthma management.

Physician-to-patient ratios in Parkersburg, particularly concerning primary care physicians and pulmonologists, are a significant factor influencing asthma care. While precise figures fluctuate, the region often experiences a shortage of primary care providers. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent follow-up appointments, and potentially poorer asthma control. Patients may face longer wait times to see a physician, impacting their ability to receive timely interventions and education. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, is even more limited, further straining resources for asthma patients with complex needs.

The quality of care provided by individual practices within 26104 varies. A comprehensive 'Asthma Score' analysis would consider factors such as the practice's adherence to national asthma guidelines, the availability of asthma education programs, and the use of patient-centered care approaches. Practices that consistently implement evidence-based practices, provide comprehensive patient education, and actively involve patients in their care plans typically achieve better asthma control outcomes. Evaluating patient satisfaction through surveys and analyzing data on asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of different practices.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care accessibility in Parkersburg. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access for those living in rural areas or facing mobility challenges. It can facilitate regular check-ups, medication management, and asthma education. The successful implementation of telemedicine requires adequate infrastructure, including reliable internet access, patient and provider training, and integration with existing electronic health records. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

Mental health considerations are integral to asthma management. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The 'Asthma Score' analysis should assess the availability of mental health resources within practices and the broader community. This includes evaluating whether practices screen patients for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals collaborate with primary care physicians and pulmonologists, can provide comprehensive and coordinated care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of asthma.

Standout practices in Parkersburg, as identified through a comprehensive analysis, would demonstrate several key characteristics. They would prioritize patient education, empowering patients to actively manage their asthma through self-monitoring techniques, medication adherence strategies, and environmental control measures. They would utilize electronic health records to track patient data, monitor asthma control, and personalize treatment plans. They would also foster strong patient-physician relationships, creating a supportive and collaborative environment. Furthermore, standout practices would actively engage with the community, participating in asthma awareness campaigns and collaborating with schools and other organizations to promote asthma education and prevention.

Primary care availability directly impacts asthma management. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients with asthma, providing initial diagnoses, medication management, and ongoing monitoring. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to increased wait times, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer asthma control. Efforts to improve primary care availability, such as recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding access to telehealth services, and promoting team-based care models, are crucial for improving asthma care in Parkersburg.

The 'Asthma Score' analysis would also consider the availability of specific asthma medications and devices. Ensuring that patients have access to the medications they need, including both rescue inhalers and controller medications, is essential for effective asthma management. The analysis would assess the affordability of medications, the availability of patient assistance programs, and the ease with which patients can obtain necessary devices, such as peak flow meters and spacers.

The role of community resources in asthma management should not be overlooked. The 'Asthma Score' analysis would evaluate the availability of asthma education programs offered by community organizations, such as the American Lung Association. It would also assess the presence of environmental health initiatives aimed at reducing asthma triggers, such as mold remediation programs and efforts to improve air quality. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations can enhance asthma awareness, promote prevention strategies, and improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the 'Asthma Score' analysis for asthma care in ZIP code 26104, Parkersburg, reveals a landscape of both challenges and opportunities. Addressing physician shortages, improving practice quality, embracing telemedicine, integrating mental health services, and fostering community partnerships are all crucial for enhancing asthma management. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor influencing access to care. The development of a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' is not merely a scoring exercise; it is a dynamic process that requires ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation to meet the evolving needs of asthma patients in Parkersburg.

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