26676, Leivasy, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26676, Leivasy, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26676 has some form of health insurance. 66.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.39 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 26676 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 41 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26676. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 219 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 306 health care providers accessible to residents in 26676, Leivasy, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26676 and Primary Care in Leivasy

Evaluating the accessibility and quality of asthma care within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 26676, encompassing the Leivasy area, to assess the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources crucial for managing asthma. The goal is to provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment, considering factors beyond simple physician counts.

The initial step involves determining the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures necessitate access to real-time patient registries and physician data, publicly available resources like the US Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer estimates. ZIP code 26676 is a rural area. Therefore, it is likely that the physician-to-patient ratio is less favorable than in more urban settings. This scarcity of PCPs is a significant factor impacting the 'Asthma Score'. It means that patients with asthma may face challenges in securing timely appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and asthma management education.

Beyond raw numbers, the 'Asthma Score' must consider the characteristics of the available practices. The presence of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists within or near the ZIP code is critical. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose and manage complex asthma cases, providing advanced treatment options and contributing to improved patient outcomes. Their availability significantly elevates the 'Asthma Score'. If specialist access is limited, the score is negatively impacted, particularly for individuals with severe or uncontrolled asthma.

Another critical element is telemedicine adoption. The utilization of telemedicine platforms by local practices can dramatically improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, facilitating medication adjustments, monitoring asthma symptoms, and receiving educational resources without the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and online patient portals, will positively influence the 'Asthma Score'. This is especially crucial for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

The 'Asthma Score' also encompasses the availability of mental health resources. Asthma is often linked to anxiety and depression, and these conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health services or provide referrals to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. The presence of on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health organizations, or readily available mental health referrals will boost the 'Asthma Score'. This integrated approach recognizes the holistic needs of asthma patients.

Furthermore, practices that actively participate in asthma education programs will improve the 'Asthma Score'. Patient education is paramount for effective asthma management. Practices that provide asthma action plans, teach proper inhaler techniques, and offer education on environmental triggers empower patients to take control of their condition. The availability of educational materials, group classes, and individualized counseling sessions is indicative of a practice's commitment to patient education.

When evaluating the practices within and around ZIP code 26676, it is important to identify any standout examples. Are there practices that demonstrate exceptional commitment to asthma care? Do they offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day urgent care for asthma exacerbations? Do they participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives? Identifying these standout practices is essential for understanding the overall quality of care available. These practices, with their innovative approaches and patient-centered focus, will positively impact the 'Asthma Score'.

Conversely, practices with limited resources or a lack of focus on asthma management will negatively impact the 'Asthma Score'. This includes practices with long wait times, limited appointment availability, and a lack of specialized asthma expertise. Practices that do not offer patient education or fail to address the mental health needs of their patients will also contribute to a lower score.

The 'Asthma Score' is not a static metric. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the addition or removal of physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of new asthma management guidelines. Continuous monitoring ensures that the 'Asthma Score' remains a relevant and accurate reflection of the quality and accessibility of asthma care.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Asthma Score' for ZIP code 26676 and the Leivasy area requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient education initiatives. This assessment provides a valuable insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to asthma care.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26676 and the surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, facilitating a more comprehensive analysis.