26164, Ravenswood, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26164, Ravenswood, West Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.81 percent of the residents in 26164 has some form of health insurance. 49.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.28 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 26164 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,578 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26164. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,390 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 136 health care providers accessible to residents in 26164, Ravenswood, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Ravenswood, WV (ZIP Code 26164)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly regarding asthma management, in Ravenswood, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26164) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the adoption of telemedicine, examine the presence of mental health resources, and ultimately, evaluate the overall "Asthma Score" for the area. This score will reflect the ease with which residents can access comprehensive asthma care, including diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in accessible primary care. In Ravenswood, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Determining the exact ratio requires data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, decreased access to preventative care, and potentially, delayed asthma diagnoses and treatment. The analysis needs to identify the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code and then compare that to the population of Ravenswood. This raw data, coupled with information on physician specialization (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine) helps paint a clearer picture of the primary care landscape.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This analysis must identify standout practices within 26164. These practices should be assessed based on several criteria. First, the availability of comprehensive asthma management services, including spirometry testing, peak flow meter education, and asthma action plan development. Second, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate efficient communication and care coordination. Third, the practice's commitment to patient education, including providing resources on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and emergency management. Investigating patient reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine offers a valuable avenue for asthma management, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care may be limited. Telehealth platforms can facilitate virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. This analysis will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in Ravenswood utilize telemedicine technologies. Are virtual appointments offered? Do physicians use remote monitoring devices? The availability and effectiveness of telemedicine services can significantly improve asthma control and reduce hospitalizations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but crucial, component of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. A comprehensive "Asthma Score" must consider the availability of mental health services within the community. This analysis will assess the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed counselors, within the Ravenswood area. It will also investigate whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for providing holistic asthma care.

The "Asthma Score" will be a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed. It will not be a simple numerical score, but rather a nuanced assessment based on the following: the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score will indicate better access to comprehensive asthma care, while a lower score will highlight areas for improvement.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, other considerations will influence the "Asthma Score." These include: the availability of after-hours care, the presence of specialized asthma clinics or pulmonologists, and the accessibility of pharmacies for medication refills. The analysis will also consider the demographics of the population, including age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of asthma within the community.

To further enhance the analysis, data from public health agencies, insurance providers, and community organizations will be incorporated. This information will provide a broader understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ravenswood and identify potential disparities in access to care. The goal is to create a comprehensive and actionable assessment that can be used to improve asthma management within the community.

The "Asthma Score" will also consider the impact of environmental factors on asthma. Ravenswood, like many communities, may face challenges related to air quality, allergens, and other environmental triggers. This analysis will examine data on air pollution levels, pollen counts, and other relevant environmental factors to assess their potential impact on asthma prevalence and severity.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Ravenswood, WV (ZIP Code 26164) will be a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare resources available for asthma management. It will consider physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and environmental factors. This in-depth analysis will provide a valuable assessment of the current state of asthma care and highlight areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ravenswood, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can help you visualize physician locations, identify areas with limited access to care, and track trends over time.