26807, Franklin, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26807, Franklin, West Virginia is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.38 percent of the residents in 26807 has some form of health insurance. 48.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.33 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 26807 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 455 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26807. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 570 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20 health care providers accessible to residents in 26807, Franklin, West Virginia.

Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians & Primary Care in Franklin, WV (ZIP Code 26807)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within Franklin, West Virginia (ZIP code 26807) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for asthma sufferers. The goal is to provide a snapshot of the current landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform residents seeking quality healthcare.

Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Foundation of Access

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In a rural area like Franklin, this ratio can significantly impact the ability of asthma patients to receive timely and consistent care. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists, and increased travel distances for patients. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a greater availability of physicians, potentially leading to improved access and more personalized care. Research into the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 26807 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) could provide this critical information. This data should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of physicians in Franklin.

Standout Practices: Centers of Excellence

Identifying standout medical practices within Franklin is crucial for understanding the quality of asthma care available. These practices may demonstrate excellence through various factors, including: a focus on asthma management, the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, patient education programs, and positive patient outcomes. Researching local practices involves several steps. First, identify all primary care physicians and specialists (e.g., pulmonologists, allergists) practicing within the ZIP code. Then, investigate their credentials, experience, and any specializations related to asthma. Patient reviews and testimonials, when available, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Furthermore, exploring whether practices participate in quality improvement initiatives or are recognized for excellence in asthma care is important. Contacting local healthcare providers directly could provide information about their asthma management programs and resources.

Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care for asthma patients in Franklin, reducing the need for travel and allowing for more frequent monitoring and consultations. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which local practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and other telehealth services. Evaluate the types of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of use for patients, and the availability of technical support. Furthermore, investigate whether telemedicine is utilized for asthma management, including medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and patient education. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine can potentially provide more convenient and accessible care for asthma patients, especially those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Holistic Needs

Asthma can significantly impact mental health. Chronic illness can lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Franklin involves identifying local mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Determine whether these professionals have experience in treating patients with chronic illnesses, including asthma. Investigate whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers. Furthermore, explore the availability of support groups, educational programs, and other resources that can help asthma patients manage their mental health. The presence of robust mental health support can improve patients' overall well-being and adherence to asthma management plans.

Specific Considerations for Franklin, WV

The unique characteristics of Franklin, WV, must be considered. As a rural community, factors like transportation limitations, socioeconomic disparities, and the availability of specialized care can influence the quality of asthma care. Consider the demographics of the population, including the prevalence of asthma within the community. Investigate any local initiatives or programs aimed at improving asthma care, such as community health centers, school-based asthma programs, or public health campaigns. Furthermore, assess the impact of environmental factors, such as air quality, on asthma symptoms. Understanding these specific considerations is essential for developing a comprehensive assessment of asthma care in Franklin.

Data Collection and Analysis

Gathering the necessary data for this analysis requires a multi-pronged approach. Utilize online resources, such as healthcare provider directories, patient review websites, and government databases. Contact local healthcare practices directly to gather information about their services and programs. Conduct interviews with patients and healthcare providers to gain qualitative insights. Analyze the collected data to identify patterns, trends, and gaps in care. Compare the findings to state and national benchmarks to assess the relative quality of asthma care in Franklin.

Improving Asthma Care in Franklin

Based on the findings of this analysis, recommendations can be made to improve asthma care in Franklin. These recommendations may include: increasing the number of physicians, particularly specialists, in the area; promoting the adoption of telemedicine; expanding mental health services; and implementing patient education programs. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies is essential for implementing these recommendations.

Conclusion

Evaluating asthma care in Franklin, WV (26807) requires a comprehensive understanding of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the current landscape and identifying areas for improvement. Further research and data collection are crucial for developing targeted interventions that can enhance the quality of life for asthma patients in Franklin.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Franklin, WV, and to explore physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data, we encourage you to utilize **CartoChrome maps**. Their interactive platform allows for a deeper dive into the data, providing valuable insights that can inform healthcare decisions and improve patient outcomes.