26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.18 percent of the residents in 26767 has some form of health insurance. 38.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.54 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 26767 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 104 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26767. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 115 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 450 health care providers accessible to residents in 26767, Wiley Ford, West Virginia.

The analysis of asthma care within the 26767 ZIP code, encompassing the Wiley Ford area, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, evaluating not only the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility, and integration of modern healthcare practices. This assessment will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and gauge the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive asthma care landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Wiley Ford, and by extension, the broader 26767 ZIP code, is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs), can significantly impede timely access to care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management of asthma symptoms, and increased rates of emergency room visits. Conversely, a high ratio, suggesting a surplus of PCPs, theoretically allows for more personalized attention and proactive disease management. However, a high ratio alone does not guarantee quality; the expertise, experience, and resources available within each practice are equally important.

Assessing the specific number of PCPs within the ZIP code, and their patient load, provides a baseline understanding of accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards, can be used to determine the number of active PCPs. Further investigation is needed to understand the average patient load per physician, which can provide insights into wait times for appointments and the overall capacity of the local healthcare system.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the operational and clinical aspects of local healthcare providers. Practices excelling in asthma care often demonstrate several key characteristics. They might employ certified asthma educators, offering specialized patient education on triggers, medication management, and proper inhaler technique. They may also have robust systems for monitoring patient symptoms, such as regular follow-up appointments and the use of patient portals for communication and symptom tracking. These practices may also participate in quality improvement initiatives, constantly evaluating and refining their asthma care protocols based on evidence-based guidelines.

Furthermore, the integration of technology, particularly telemedicine, can significantly impact asthma care accessibility and management. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, facilitating regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and symptom monitoring, especially for those with mobility limitations or residing in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive disease management. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring devices, can significantly enhance the overall quality of asthma care within the 26767 ZIP code.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Consequently, the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system is a crucial factor in comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration allows for early identification and management of mental health concerns, which can improve asthma control and overall patient outcomes.

The level of integration of mental health services can be assessed by evaluating the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the implementation of screening tools for mental health conditions. Practices that prioritize mental health demonstrate a commitment to addressing the complex needs of asthma patients.

Analyzing the practices within the 26767 ZIP code requires a granular approach. This involves reviewing online reviews, assessing the presence of specialized asthma care programs, and evaluating the availability of patient resources, such as educational materials and support groups. Practices that consistently receive positive reviews from patients, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care, and offer comprehensive patient resources are likely to be the top performers in asthma care.

The data collected and analyzed should be viewed as a snapshot of the current situation. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and practices that are considered “standout” today may need to adapt and innovate to maintain their position. Regular assessments and ongoing monitoring are essential to ensure that asthma care in the 26767 ZIP code continues to meet the needs of the community.

The primary care availability in Wiley Ford is a critical component of the overall assessment. The number of PCPs in the area, the average patient load, and the wait times for appointments all contribute to the accessibility of care. Further, the availability of after-hours care, such as urgent care clinics or on-call physicians, can significantly impact the ability of patients to manage their asthma symptoms effectively.

The presence of specialized clinics or programs, such as asthma centers or pulmonary specialists, can further enhance the quality of care. These specialized providers often have extensive experience in managing complex asthma cases and can offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The proximity of these specialists to the Wiley Ford area can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The overall picture of asthma care in the 26767 ZIP code, encompassing Wiley Ford, is complex. The analysis must consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation provides a basis for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

The data, once compiled and analyzed, can be visually represented using advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can be used to visualize the distribution of PCPs, the location of specialized clinics, and the availability of mental health resources within the 26767 ZIP code. This visual representation can provide a clear and concise overview of the asthma care landscape, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and prioritize resources effectively.