26147, Grantsville, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26147, Grantsville, West Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.30 percent of the residents in 26147 has some form of health insurance. 57.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.48 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 26147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 264 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 484 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 81 health care providers accessible to residents in 26147, Grantsville, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Grantsville, WV (ZIP Code 26147)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Grantsville, West Virginia (ZIP code 26147) necessitates a multifaceted approach, especially when considering asthma management. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and other factors influencing asthma care within the community. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" ranking, offering a comprehensive overview of the current state of healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible primary care. In Grantsville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced follow-up care, and ultimately, poorer asthma control. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the U.S. Census Bureau, alongside local hospital and clinic information, must be analyzed to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio directly impacts the “Asthma Score,” with a higher ratio negatively affecting the ranking. Furthermore, the availability of pediatricians and pulmonologists within the area is crucial, as these specialists are essential for diagnosing and managing asthma, especially in children.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several key metrics. These include the percentage of patients with controlled asthma, the frequency of emergency room visits for asthma exacerbations, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive asthma management plans, and readily available resources will score higher. Researching local practices' adherence to national asthma guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), is essential. Practices that consistently implement these guidelines are likely to provide superior care, leading to a higher “Asthma Score.”

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Grantsville. Its adoption can significantly impact the “Asthma Score.” Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient education programs can improve asthma management and reduce the need for in-person visits. The availability of telehealth services, especially for medication refills, follow-up appointments, and patient education, needs to be assessed. Practices embracing telemedicine are likely to receive a higher ranking, reflecting their commitment to accessible and convenient care.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable, and asthma is no exception. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact treatment adherence. The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is therefore crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, collaborate with mental health professionals, or provide referrals to mental health support are more likely to provide comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is critical for determining the “Asthma Score.” A practice that prioritizes mental health integration will contribute to a higher score.

Analyzing pharmaceutical access is also a key component of the “Asthma Score” evaluation. The availability of asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and controller medications, is essential for effective asthma management. The presence of local pharmacies and their ability to provide timely medication refills, as well as the availability of patient assistance programs for those struggling to afford their medications, needs to be assessed. Pharmacies that offer convenient services, such as medication delivery or online prescription refills, can further improve access to care.

Community-level factors also play a role. Environmental factors, such as air quality and the presence of allergens, can significantly impact asthma control. Data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on local air quality and pollen counts is essential for assessing the impact of environmental factors. Additionally, community outreach programs that educate residents about asthma triggers and management strategies can contribute to improved asthma control. The presence of such programs will positively impact the “Asthma Score.”

The "Asthma Score" ranking, in essence, is a complex calculation. It is not a simple numerical score, but a holistic assessment of the entire healthcare ecosystem. It considers physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, pharmaceutical access, and community-level factors. The higher the “Asthma Score,” the better the overall asthma care available within the ZIP code.

In the context of Grantsville, 26147, the "Asthma Score" will likely be influenced by the rural nature of the area. The challenges of physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and the need for improved telemedicine infrastructure are likely to be significant factors. However, the presence of dedicated primary care practices, community health initiatives, and the potential for expanding telemedicine services can positively impact the score.

To fully understand the nuances of healthcare accessibility in Grantsville, a detailed geographical analysis is essential. This includes mapping physician locations, pharmacy locations, and the location of healthcare facilities offering mental health services. This spatial analysis allows for a visual representation of healthcare access and helps identify underserved areas. The ability to visualize the data is critical for making informed decisions about resource allocation and healthcare improvements.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Grantsville, and to visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare data, identifying areas of need, and developing strategies for improving asthma care within the community.