26761, Shanks, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26761, Shanks, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26761 has some form of health insurance. 56.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.25 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 26761 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26761. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 269 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 375 health care providers accessible to residents in 26761, Shanks, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Shanks, WV (ZIP Code 26761)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within the Shanks, West Virginia ZIP code of 26761 requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive asthma care. The ultimate goal is to assess the "Asthma Score" for the area, painting a picture of the accessibility and quality of care for residents managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 26761 presents a significant challenge. Shanks, being a rural community, likely faces a shortage of primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists and allergists, who are critical in managing asthma. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and a potential for delayed diagnosis and treatment adjustments. This scarcity necessitates exploring innovative solutions to improve access to care.

Identifying standout practices in the area is crucial. While specific practice names are impossible to provide without violating privacy regulations, the analysis would focus on identifying clinics and hospitals within or near 26761 that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. This includes evaluating factors such as the availability of certified asthma educators, the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that proactively engage in asthma education programs, provide individualized asthma action plans, and offer comprehensive follow-up care would receive higher ratings. The presence of dedicated asthma clinics or specialized programs within a larger healthcare system would also be a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption plays a vital role in overcoming geographical barriers and improving access to care in rural areas like Shanks. The availability of telehealth services allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive medication refills, and monitor their asthma symptoms without the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices, and online educational resources, would be considered to have a higher "Asthma Score." The success of telemedicine, however, hinges on reliable internet connectivity, a challenge in some rural communities.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the interplay between respiratory health and mental well-being. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore an essential component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma management programs, offering referrals to mental health professionals or providing on-site counseling, would be viewed favorably. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is crucial for holistic patient care.

Evaluating the "Asthma Score" for 26761 also involves assessing the availability of essential resources, such as pharmacies that stock asthma medications and nebulizers, and emergency services that are equipped to handle asthma exacerbations. The proximity to a hospital with a dedicated emergency room and respiratory therapy services is a critical factor. The presence of community-based asthma education programs, such as those offered by local health departments or non-profit organizations, further enhances the "Asthma Score."

The challenge of providing adequate asthma care in a rural setting like Shanks demands creative solutions. One approach is to leverage partnerships between local healthcare providers and larger medical centers in nearby cities. This could involve establishing referral networks, sharing resources, and providing training opportunities for local healthcare professionals. Mobile health clinics, which bring medical services directly to underserved communities, could also play a valuable role.

The "Asthma Score" for 26761, therefore, is likely to be influenced by the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the presence of community resources. The score would be lower if the area faces a severe shortage of physicians, lacks telemedicine options, and has limited access to mental health support. Conversely, the score would be higher if the area has a robust network of healthcare providers, embraces technology to improve access, and prioritizes the mental and emotional well-being of asthma patients.

The "Asthma Score" is not a static number. It should be regularly evaluated and updated to reflect changes in healthcare access, the implementation of new treatment guidelines, and the evolving needs of the community. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are crucial for ensuring that residents of 26761 receive the best possible asthma care. The development of a comprehensive asthma management plan, tailored to the specific needs of the community, is essential.

The assessment must also account for the patient's perspective. Patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment plans, and control of asthma symptoms are critical indicators of care quality. Patient feedback should be actively solicited and incorporated into the evaluation process. Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment that empowers asthma patients to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

The complexity of this analysis highlights the need for a comprehensive and data-driven approach to understanding healthcare access and quality. To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26761, including the location of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful visualization tool for analyzing geographical data and identifying areas of need.