26148, Macfarlan, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26148, Macfarlan, West Virginia is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.10 percent of the residents in 26148 has some form of health insurance. 21.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.04 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 26148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26148. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 13 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 108 health care providers accessible to residents in 26148, Macfarlan, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26148 and Primary Care Availability in Macfarlan

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP Code 26148, encompassing the Macfarlan, West Virginia area. We will assess the landscape of primary care providers, considering factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all critical for a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The foundation of asthma care rests upon accessible primary care. Macfarlan, a relatively rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a potential shortage of primary care physicians and specialists. This scarcity directly impacts the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, meaning a larger number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent per patient during consultations, and ultimately, a less comprehensive approach to asthma management. This situation can be particularly detrimental for asthma sufferers, who often require regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and prompt access to care during exacerbations.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to asthma care by implementing best practices, such as adhering to national guidelines for asthma management, offering patient education programs, and utilizing advanced diagnostic tools. Such practices may also have dedicated staff trained in asthma care, like certified asthma educators, who can provide personalized support and guidance to patients. Assessing these practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, examining the availability of specialized equipment like spirometry, and evaluating the practice's commitment to continuous quality improvement in asthma care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care for asthma patients in Macfarlan. Telemedicine enables virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living far from medical facilities, or those seeking to manage their asthma proactively. The availability of telemedicine services within the practices in ZIP Code 26148 is a key indicator of the quality and accessibility of asthma care.

Asthma is not merely a physical ailment; it often coexists with mental health challenges. Anxiety and depression are common among asthma sufferers, exacerbating symptoms and impacting overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who can provide counseling, medication management, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, or the ease of referral to external mental health providers, is a significant factor in assessing the quality of asthma care in Macfarlan.

Evaluating the specific practices within ZIP Code 26148 requires a granular approach. We must consider the number of primary care physicians, their specializations (e.g., pulmonology), and the patient volume they handle. Furthermore, an assessment of the practices' infrastructure is necessary, including the availability of necessary equipment like spirometers, nebulizers, and peak flow meters. Patient education materials, such as pamphlets and online resources, also play a vital role in asthma management. The presence of certified asthma educators within the practices is a strong indicator of a commitment to patient-centered care.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of patient portals for communication and medication refills. A practice that proactively utilizes telemedicine to manage asthma patients demonstrates a forward-thinking approach and a commitment to improving patient access to care.

Mental health resource availability must be considered. This includes assessing the practice's referral network, the availability of on-site mental health services, and the practice's commitment to addressing the mental health needs of its patients.

The overall asthma score for doctors in ZIP Code 26148 would be determined by weighing these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care base, with favorable physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices with comprehensive asthma management programs, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would reflect challenges in these areas, potentially leading to difficulties in accessing timely and effective asthma care.

The availability of specialized care is also crucial. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for asthma management, access to pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists is essential for patients with complex or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity of these specialists to Macfarlan and the ease with which patients can access their services are critical factors in the overall assessment.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the insurance coverage accepted by the practices within ZIP Code 26148. The availability of affordable asthma medications and the ease of navigating the healthcare system are also important factors.

In conclusion, the asthma score for doctors in ZIP Code 26148, representing the Macfarlan area, is a multifaceted assessment. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The quality of asthma care directly impacts the health and well-being of residents. For a detailed, visually-driven map of healthcare resources and accessibility within ZIP Code 26148 and beyond, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.