26684, Pool, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26684, Pool, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26684 has some form of health insurance. 26.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.47 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 26684 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 218 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26684. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 329 health care providers accessible to residents in 26684, Pool, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26684 & Primary Care in Pool

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 26684, and specifically focusing on primary care availability in the broader area of Pool, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will attempt to provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment, considering factors relevant to asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The aim is to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape, particularly for individuals managing asthma, and to identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

Assessing the 'Asthma Score' begins with evaluating physician-to-patient ratios. In ZIP Code 26684, and the surrounding Pool area, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists directly impacts access to care. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher concentration of physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access for appointments, follow-up care, and specialist referrals – all crucial for effective asthma management. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying crucial interventions and exacerbating asthma symptoms. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or state medical boards, along with insurance provider directories, can provide insights into these ratios. The score would then be adjusted based on the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, who are essential for diagnosing, treating, and managing asthma.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices within the area significantly influence the 'Asthma Score.' Practices that prioritize asthma management, for example, by offering specialized asthma education programs, providing on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT), or having dedicated asthma nurses or respiratory therapists, would receive higher scores. The availability of these resources directly contributes to improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, adhering to national asthma guidelines and incorporating the latest research into their treatment protocols, would be viewed favorably. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals also plays a crucial role, facilitating communication, medication management, and appointment scheduling, ultimately enhancing the patient experience.

Identifying standout practices within the area is a key component of the 'Asthma Score' analysis. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in asthma care, as evidenced by patient satisfaction surveys, positive online reviews, and demonstrable improvements in patient outcomes (e.g., reduced hospitalizations, fewer emergency room visits), would be highlighted. These practices often serve as models for best practices, offering valuable insights into effective asthma management strategies. Investigating these practices would involve examining their staffing models, their use of technology, and their approach to patient education and self-management.

The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in the modern healthcare landscape, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, including increased access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It also facilitates remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, allowing physicians to proactively intervene and prevent exacerbations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher 'Asthma Score.' The ease of access and the quality of the telemedicine experience would also be assessed, considering factors like the availability of user-friendly platforms, the integration of telemedicine with EHRs, and the training provided to both patients and physicians.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as an integral part of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma management programs, either through in-house therapists or through partnerships with mental health professionals, would receive a higher score. This integration can involve screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling services, and coordinating care between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health specialists. The availability of these resources is crucial for addressing the holistic needs of asthma patients.

The 'Asthma Score' analysis also considers the broader healthcare infrastructure within the Pool area. This includes the availability of urgent care centers, emergency rooms, and pharmacies, which are essential for managing acute asthma exacerbations. The proximity of these facilities to patients, the availability of after-hours care, and the efficiency of emergency room services all contribute to the overall 'Asthma Score.' Furthermore, the availability of asthma-specific resources, such as support groups, patient education materials, and community outreach programs, would also be considered.

In conclusion, the 'Asthma Score' for ZIP Code 26684 and primary care in Pool is a composite measure that reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the broader healthcare infrastructure. The assessment is dynamic and requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure that patients with asthma receive the best possible care.

For a more detailed, interactive analysis of healthcare resources in ZIP Code 26684 and the Pool area, including the location of physicians, practices, and pharmacies, and the availability of various services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provides a powerful visualization tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and making informed decisions about your health.