26184, Waverly, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26184, Waverly, West Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.04 percent of the residents in 26184 has some form of health insurance. 32.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.84 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 26184 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 861 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26184. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 481 health care providers accessible to residents in 26184, Waverly, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Waverly, WV (ZIP Code 26184)

Evaluating the quality of asthma care and primary care access within Waverly, West Virginia (ZIP code 26184) requires a multifaceted approach. An "Asthma Score" analysis, though not a standardized metric, can be constructed by assessing key factors impacting patient outcomes and healthcare accessibility. This analysis will consider physician density, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on the number of practicing physicians within a specific ZIP code can be difficult to obtain, public health resources and professional directories provide a general picture. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate limited access to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased emergency room visits for asthma exacerbations. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups, proactive management, and patient education. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly crucial. PCPs are often the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnoses, medication management, and referrals to specialists like pulmonologists and allergists.

Primary care availability extends beyond physician numbers. It encompasses factors like office hours, appointment scheduling processes, and insurance acceptance. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments for urgent needs, and accept a wide range of insurance plans demonstrate a commitment to patient accessibility. The physical location of these practices is also a factor. Are they centrally located, easily accessible by public transportation, and within a reasonable driving distance for residents of Waverly? Rural areas often face challenges in this regard, requiring creative solutions to bridge geographical barriers.

Standout practices within the Waverly area, if any, would likely be those that demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma management. This could include implementing asthma action plans for all patients, providing comprehensive patient education materials, and utilizing evidence-based guidelines for treatment. Practices that actively monitor patient outcomes, track asthma control test scores, and regularly review medication regimens are likely to achieve better results. Furthermore, practices that participate in community outreach programs, such as asthma awareness campaigns or school-based education initiatives, demonstrate a commitment to improving the overall health of the community.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and asthma education sessions are demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with data transmission capabilities, can further enhance asthma management by enabling physicians to track patient symptoms and adjust treatment plans as needed.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are better equipped to provide holistic care. This includes screening for mental health conditions, educating patients about the link between asthma and mental health, and coordinating care between primary care physicians and mental health professionals.

Analyzing the availability of these resources in Waverly requires a thorough review of local healthcare providers. Public health websites, insurance provider directories, and online review platforms can provide valuable insights. However, it's important to recognize that online information may not always be completely accurate or up-to-date. Direct contact with healthcare practices is often necessary to gather the most current information on services, appointment availability, and telemedicine options.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for Waverly, WV (ZIP code 26184) involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, primary care accessibility, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. While a definitive score is difficult to calculate without specific data, a comprehensive analysis of these factors can provide a valuable understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. The availability of accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered care is essential for managing asthma effectively and improving the overall health of the community.

For a detailed, interactive map of healthcare providers in the Waverly area, including locations, specialties, and potentially even telemedicine capabilities, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Use CartoChrome to visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.