26568, Enterprise, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26568, Enterprise, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.60 percent of the residents in 26568 has some form of health insurance. 40.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.91 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 26568 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 184 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26568. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 139 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 853 health care providers accessible to residents in 26568, Enterprise, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26568 & Primary Care in Enterprise

This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources in the context of asthma management, specifically focusing on ZIP code 26568 (a hypothetical location) and primary care access in Enterprise (also hypothetical). The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" ranking, assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape for asthma patients in these areas. This score will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of a good asthma management strategy is robust primary care. In assessing ZIP code 26568, we need to determine the number of PCPs actively practicing within the area. This information, combined with the population data for the ZIP code, allows us to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care. Conversely, a low ratio might suggest longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised asthma management due to delayed interventions. Data collection would involve cross-referencing multiple databases, including state medical boards, insurance provider directories, and local hospital affiliations.

Beyond the raw numbers, the "Asthma Score" must consider the quality of care. We’ll look for standout practices within the ZIP code. These are clinics or individual physicians recognized for their expertise in asthma management. This assessment involves analyzing patient reviews, identifying physicians specializing in pulmonology or allergy, and evaluating the availability of asthma-specific resources within the practice. Does the practice offer spirometry testing on-site? Are they actively involved in patient education regarding asthma triggers and medication adherence? Do they have a dedicated asthma nurse or respiratory therapist? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care would receive higher scores.

Telemedicine is increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. The "Asthma Score" needs to assess the adoption of telemedicine services by PCPs in the area. Do physicians offer virtual consultations for routine follow-ups or medication adjustments? Does the practice utilize remote monitoring technologies, such as peak flow meters that transmit data electronically? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Practices embracing telemedicine will be ranked more favorably.

Asthma is often associated with mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. The "Asthma Score" must evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals. Do PCPs screen patients for mental health concerns? Are there on-site mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors? If not, are there established referral pathways to mental health specialists in the community? A practice that recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health and provides access to mental health support will score higher.

Transitioning to Enterprise, the focus shifts to primary care availability within the broader community. While specific ZIP code data might be less relevant, we’ll assess the overall access to PCPs for Enterprise residents. This includes evaluating the number of PCPs practicing within the city limits and the surrounding areas, taking into account the population density of Enterprise. We will consider factors such as the presence of large hospital systems or community health centers, which often play a significant role in providing primary care services.

The analysis also considers the geographic distribution of PCPs within Enterprise. Are primary care practices concentrated in certain areas, leaving other parts of the city underserved? This assessment involves mapping the locations of PCP practices and analyzing them in relation to population density and potential barriers to access, such as transportation limitations. The goal is to identify areas where access to primary care might be compromised.

The "Asthma Score" for Enterprise will also consider the presence of specialized asthma care resources. Does Enterprise have any pulmonologists or allergists? Are there specialized asthma clinics or programs? These resources are crucial for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The availability of these specialized services will significantly impact the overall score.

Furthermore, the analysis should examine the availability of patient education and support resources in Enterprise. Are there asthma support groups or educational programs offered by local hospitals or community organizations? Does the local health department provide asthma-related information and resources? Patient education is critical for effective asthma management, and the presence of these resources will positively influence the score.

Finally, the "Asthma Score" will incorporate data on insurance coverage and affordability. Does Enterprise have a high rate of uninsured or underinsured residents? Are there programs or resources available to help patients access affordable asthma medications and care? The ability to afford necessary medications and treatments is essential for effective asthma management, and the "Asthma Score" must reflect this reality.

In conclusion, creating a comprehensive "Asthma Score" for both ZIP code 26568 and Enterprise requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves detailed data collection, thorough analysis of healthcare resources, and a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by asthma patients. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and access to specialized resources, we can create a meaningful assessment of the healthcare landscape for asthma management in these areas.