26519, Albright, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26519, Albright, West Virginia is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.98 percent of the residents in 26519 has some form of health insurance. 46.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.40 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 26519 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 275 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 24 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26519. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 395 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,894 health care providers accessible to residents in 26519, Albright, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26519 and Primary Care in Albright

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care within ZIP code 26519, encompassing the town of Albright, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their adherence to asthma management guidelines, and the integration of innovative healthcare solutions. The ultimate goal is to assess the overall "Asthma Score" for this specific geographic area, providing insights into the accessibility and effectiveness of care for asthma sufferers.

The first critical element is physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within 26519, and the estimated patient population, is fundamental. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine, combined with census information, allows for this initial calculation. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could signal potential access challenges for asthma patients seeking timely appointments and ongoing care. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management, and increased reliance on emergency room visits, all negatively impacting the asthma score.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is crucial. Are they concentrated in specific areas within the zip code, potentially creating "healthcare deserts" for those residing further away? Transportation limitations, particularly in rural settings like Albright, can exacerbate these disparities. Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, must be considered. If patients are forced to travel significant distances for specialized consultations, the asthma score will suffer.

The quality of care provided by PCPs is a core component of the asthma score. This involves evaluating their adherence to established asthma management guidelines, such as those published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Key indicators include the frequency of spirometry testing to assess lung function, the prescription of appropriate medications (including both quick-relief and controller medications), and the development of personalized asthma action plans for each patient. Practices that consistently implement these guidelines will naturally contribute to a higher asthma score.

Identifying standout practices within 26519 is crucial. This involves recognizing those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care. These practices might have dedicated asthma educators, provide comprehensive patient education materials, and actively monitor patient outcomes. They might also participate in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing asthma management. Publicly available data, patient testimonials, and peer reviews can help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant factor influencing the asthma score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication refills can dramatically improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially provide more frequent and convenient follow-up appointments, leading to better asthma control. This is especially critical during periods of heightened asthma triggers, such as seasonal allergies or respiratory illnesses.

The integration of mental health resources is another essential consideration. Asthma, as a chronic respiratory condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can worsen asthma symptoms and overall quality of life. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integrated approach can contribute to improved asthma control and a higher asthma score.

Primary care availability in Albright specifically requires a deeper dive. Albright, as a smaller community within 26519, may face unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The analysis should pinpoint the number of PCPs directly serving the Albright population, considering the proximity of other medical facilities in neighboring towns. The availability of after-hours care and emergency services within Albright is also a critical factor.

Assessing the availability of support services, such as asthma education programs and respiratory therapy, is also crucial. These services provide patients with the knowledge and skills necessary to self-manage their condition effectively. The presence of these resources contributes to a higher asthma score.

The overall asthma score for 26519, and specifically for Albright, will be a composite measure reflecting all these factors. It will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on improvements in physician-to-patient ratios, advancements in telemedicine adoption, and the availability of support services. The score will also reflect the quality of care provided by PCPs, including their adherence to asthma management guidelines and their integration of mental health resources.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, the location of practices, and the demographics of the patient population, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing the data and identifying areas where improvements in asthma care are most needed.

**Call to Action:** Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to visualize the healthcare landscape of 26519 and Albright. Use the interactive features to analyze physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care. Gain a clearer perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in this region, and identify opportunities for improvement.