26571, Farmington, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26571, Farmington, West Virginia is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.40 percent of the residents in 26571 has some form of health insurance. 35.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.77 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 26571 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 402 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26571. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 257 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,376 health care providers accessible to residents in 26571, Farmington, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Farmington, WV (ZIP Code 26571)

Farmington, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Marion County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly concerning asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care resources within ZIP code 26571, focusing on asthma-specific care and highlighting key factors impacting patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of affairs, enabling informed decisions for both patients and healthcare providers.

The foundation of asthma care in Farmington rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. While precise figures fluctuate, Marion County, in general, often faces challenges in this regard. The ratio of PCPs to residents can be a limiting factor, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care and proactive asthma management. This scarcity can be particularly impactful for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma, requiring regular check-ups and medication adjustments.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly influences asthma control. A well-equipped and knowledgeable PCP is essential for accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. The ability of a practice to provide comprehensive asthma education, including trigger identification, medication adherence strategies, and proper inhaler technique, is crucial. Furthermore, the integration of specialized services, such as pulmonary function testing (spirometry), within the primary care setting streamlines the diagnostic and monitoring process.

Within Farmington, several practices stand out for their commitment to asthma care. While specific names and practices may vary over time, those demonstrating a proactive approach to asthma management often exhibit key characteristics. These include a dedicated focus on patient education, the implementation of asthma action plans tailored to individual needs, and a collaborative approach involving specialists when necessary. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and track patient outcomes are also likely to be delivering superior care. They often embrace electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and coordination of care.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in the context of asthma management in Farmington. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Virtual consultations can facilitate medication refills, provide education, and monitor asthma symptoms remotely. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on reliable internet access, patient digital literacy, and the ability to conduct thorough assessments remotely. The physical examination is still a crucial part of asthma management.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of asthma care, yet they are critically important. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care setting or through referrals, is therefore essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening and provide access to counseling or therapy can improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. This is especially important in areas like Farmington, where access to mental health services may be limited.

The integration of these elements – physician-to-patient ratios, quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – paints a complex picture of asthma care in Farmington. The overall "Asthma Score" for the area is influenced by the interplay of these factors. Areas with a higher concentration of PCPs, particularly those demonstrating a commitment to asthma-specific care, would naturally score higher. Practices that embrace telemedicine and prioritize mental health integration would further enhance the score. Conversely, challenges in physician access, limited telemedicine infrastructure, and insufficient mental health resources would negatively impact the score.

Ultimately, improving asthma care in Farmington requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes addressing physician shortages, supporting practices that prioritize asthma management, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and ensuring access to mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers is essential to create a healthcare ecosystem that effectively meets the needs of asthma patients.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Farmington, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help you make informed decisions about your care.