26161, Petroleum, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26161, Petroleum, West Virginia is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.81 percent of the residents in 26161 has some form of health insurance. 54.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 34.82 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 26161 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 164 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26161. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 84 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 354 health care providers accessible to residents in 26161, Petroleum, West Virginia.

The analysis below provides an asthma score ranking for physicians practicing within ZIP code 26161, focusing on primary care availability within the Petroleum, West Virginia area. This assessment considers various factors impacting asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all crucial elements in delivering comprehensive care.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on the availability of primary care physicians. ZIP code 26161, encompassing Petroleum, is a predominantly rural area. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing physicians, their specialties, and their patient loads. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a potential strain on resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Conversely, a higher ratio, while seemingly positive, could also reflect a lack of specialists and may be associated with fewer resources.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care. This can be reflected in several ways, including the implementation of standardized asthma action plans, the provision of patient education materials, and the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and track patient outcomes are also likely to be considered standout. These practices often have a dedicated staff trained in asthma management and a focus on patient-centered care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by physicians in ZIP code 26161 can significantly impact asthma care. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and spirometers, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management. Practices with robust telemedicine capabilities are likely to score higher in this analysis.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and stress can worsen asthma symptoms and lead to poorer outcomes. Therefore, access to mental health resources is crucial for comprehensive asthma care. This includes the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, who can provide support and treatment for patients struggling with mental health issues. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs are likely to achieve higher scores.

Evaluating the asthma score for physicians in ZIP code 26161 requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the number of primary care physicians, their patient loads, and the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists. We need to examine the practices' adoption of evidence-based guidelines, their commitment to patient education, and their participation in quality improvement initiatives. The integration of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources are also critical factors.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Petroleum, West Virginia, is a crucial metric. A high ratio may indicate limited access to primary care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment for asthma. Conversely, a low ratio, though seemingly positive, could point to a lack of specialist availability. The ideal scenario involves a balanced ratio, ensuring sufficient access to primary care while also providing access to specialized asthma care when needed.

Standout practices in the area are those that go above and beyond in their asthma management. These practices often have dedicated asthma educators, offer comprehensive patient education materials, and actively monitor patient outcomes. They may also participate in asthma-specific quality improvement initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement. These practices are likely to have a positive impact on patient outcomes and should be recognized for their efforts.

Telemedicine is increasingly important in rural areas. Its adoption by physicians in ZIP code 26161 can significantly improve access to care. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management are better equipped to manage asthma patients, especially those who have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments. This technology can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the frequency of asthma exacerbations.

Mental health is a critical component of asthma management. Patients with asthma are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and stress, which can worsen their symptoms. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models are providing more comprehensive care. This may include on-site mental health professionals or referrals to external mental health providers. Addressing the mental health needs of asthma patients can lead to improved outcomes and quality of life.

The overall asthma score for physicians in ZIP code 26161 will reflect a composite of these factors. Practices with a strong focus on primary care availability, evidence-based treatment, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration will likely receive higher scores. The analysis will identify areas for improvement and highlight best practices that can be replicated throughout the community.

Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities in the Petroleum area is crucial for optimizing asthma care. The analysis will provide valuable insights for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers looking to improve their practices. This will allow for a comprehensive evaluation of the local healthcare landscape and identify opportunities to enhance asthma management.

The final asthma score ranking will be a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. It will be a useful tool for patients, providers, and policymakers alike, providing a snapshot of the current state of asthma care in the area. It will also serve as a benchmark for future improvements.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26161 and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant factors.