26719, Fort Ashby, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26719, Fort Ashby, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.56 percent of the residents in 26719 has some form of health insurance. 29.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.94 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 26719 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 308 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26719. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 572 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 447 health care providers accessible to residents in 26719, Fort Ashby, West Virginia.

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly for a condition like asthma, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on physicians in ZIP Code 26719, encompassing Fort Ashby, West Virginia, and assesses primary care availability within the community. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify potentially standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in managing asthma effectively.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments and more individualized care. Determining the precise ratio within ZIP Code 26719 necessitates accessing data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine, the U.S. Census Bureau, and potentially insurance provider databases. While a precise number is challenging to provide without real-time data, the rural nature of the area suggests a potentially higher patient-to-physician ratio compared to more urban centers. This scarcity underscores the importance of efficient resource allocation and innovative healthcare delivery models.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the local healthcare landscape. This involves researching practices that specialize in primary care and potentially pulmonology, which is directly relevant to asthma management. Factors to consider include the practice's patient reviews, the experience and board certifications of the physicians, the range of services offered (e.g., spirometry testing, allergy testing), and the practice’s commitment to patient education and asthma management plans. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives and collaborate with specialists are also likely to be considered strong candidates.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. The availability of telemedicine consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve asthma control. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing whether local practices offer virtual appointments, the types of platforms used, and the ease of use for patients. Practices that integrate telemedicine seamlessly into their workflow and provide technical support to patients are better positioned to improve patient outcomes. Telemedicine's role in asthma management is especially important for monitoring symptoms and adjusting medication dosages remotely.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critically important for asthma patients. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local mental health providers, therapists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services into their asthma management protocols are demonstrating a more holistic approach to patient care. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care.

The overall 'Asthma Score' for physicians in ZIP Code 26719, and primary care availability in Fort Ashby, would be a composite of these factors. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of individual practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater likelihood of positive patient outcomes. A lower score would suggest challenges in accessing care and a need for improvements in specific areas.

The quality of care is not solely determined by the presence of physicians; it's also influenced by the supporting infrastructure. This includes the availability of pharmacies, diagnostic facilities, and emergency services. The presence of these resources within or near Fort Ashby further contributes to the overall healthcare ecosystem and impacts the asthma score. Accessibility to these services is a crucial factor in managing acute asthma exacerbations and ensuring timely interventions.

Further, patient education plays a vital role in asthma management. Practices that provide comprehensive asthma education programs, including self-management plans, inhaler technique training, and trigger avoidance strategies, are better equipped to empower patients to take control of their condition. The availability of educational materials in multiple formats (e.g., written, online, and in-person) enhances accessibility and caters to different learning styles.

Community outreach and collaboration are essential for improving asthma care. Practices that actively engage with the community, participate in health fairs, and collaborate with schools and community organizations are better positioned to raise awareness about asthma, promote early detection, and connect patients with necessary resources. Partnerships with local pharmacies and respiratory therapists can also enhance the quality of care.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape for asthma management in ZIP Code 26719 requires a detailed evaluation of multiple factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the supporting infrastructure all contribute to the overall 'Asthma Score.' While a precise score requires access to up-to-the-minute data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key elements that influence healthcare access and quality in Fort Ashby, West Virginia.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 26719, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can offer dynamic visualizations of healthcare data, providing valuable insights and facilitating data-driven decision-making.