26710, Burlington, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26710, Burlington, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.59 percent of the residents in 26710 has some form of health insurance. 36.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.67 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 26710 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 482 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26710. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 415 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 345 health care providers accessible to residents in 26710, Burlington, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Burlington, WV (ZIP Code 26710)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 26710, Burlington, West Virginia, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, particularly when evaluating the provision of care for chronic conditions like asthma. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing an “Asthma Score” for the region. We will consider the specific context of Burlington, a rural community, and its implications for access to care.

The fundamental element of any asthma care assessment is the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). Primary care serves as the cornerstone for managing asthma, providing initial diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, medication management, and patient education. In Burlington, the availability of PCPs is a critical determinant of the Asthma Score. Assessing the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, coupled with an understanding of their patient load, is the first step. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher concentration of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, impacting the timeliness of care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This encompasses the expertise of the physicians in asthma management, their adherence to established asthma guidelines, and their ability to provide comprehensive care. This includes conducting thorough assessments, prescribing appropriate medications, educating patients on proper inhaler techniques and asthma action plans, and providing timely referrals to specialists when needed. The presence of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists within a reasonable distance further enhances the Asthma Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural settings like Burlington. Its adoption by primary care practices within the ZIP code significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, facilitating medication refills, follow-up appointments, and even initial consultations. This is especially beneficial for individuals with asthma, as it reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly during periods of symptom exacerbation or environmental triggers. Assessing the types of telemedicine services offered, the technology used, and the patient satisfaction levels with these services are crucial aspects of this analysis.

The integration of mental health resources is another vital component of a comprehensive asthma care strategy. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The Asthma Score is influenced by the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who can provide support and address the emotional needs of asthma patients. Assessing the referral pathways between primary care practices and mental health providers, as well as the availability of integrated mental health services within the healthcare system, is essential.

Examining the specific practices within ZIP Code 26710 and the surrounding areas reveals variations in their approach to asthma care. Some practices may stand out for their commitment to asthma management, evidenced by their use of asthma-specific protocols, patient education programs, and strong referral networks. These standout practices would contribute positively to the overall Asthma Score. Analyzing patient testimonials, practice accreditations, and participation in quality improvement initiatives can help identify such practices.

The geographic distribution of healthcare resources within the region also influences the Asthma Score. Accessibility can be significantly impacted by factors such as the distance patients must travel to reach a PCP, specialist, or pharmacy. Public transportation options, the availability of pharmacies, and the presence of urgent care facilities all contribute to the overall accessibility of care. The Asthma Score is negatively impacted by long travel distances, limited transportation options, and the lack of readily available resources.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors of the community influence the Asthma Score. The prevalence of asthma can be higher in lower-income populations due to factors like exposure to environmental triggers, poor housing conditions, and limited access to healthcare. The availability of resources to support these populations, such as financial assistance for medication, asthma education programs, and social services, is critical. The Asthma Score should consider these socioeconomic determinants of health.

The presence of community health initiatives and educational programs also positively impacts the Asthma Score. Asthma education programs can empower patients to manage their condition effectively, reduce hospitalizations, and improve their quality of life. Community outreach efforts that raise awareness about asthma triggers, promote healthy lifestyles, and connect patients with available resources are also beneficial.

The analysis of the Asthma Score in Burlington, WV, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic context of the community. By considering these elements, we can gain a more complete understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement to enhance the quality of asthma care within ZIP Code 26710.

The Asthma Score is not a static metric. It is dynamic and changes with improvements in healthcare delivery, the implementation of new technologies, and the evolution of community resources. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the healthcare system is effectively meeting the needs of asthma patients in Burlington, WV.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Burlington and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the Asthma Score and identifying areas for improvement.