26818, Fisher, West Virginia Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 26818, Fisher, West Virginia is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26818 has some form of health insurance. 54.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.95 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 26818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 595 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26818, Fisher, West Virginia.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26818 and Primary Care in Fisher, WV

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 26818, encompassing the Fisher, WV area, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the physician landscape, focusing on primary care availability, and then assess factors crucial for asthma management. We'll consider physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of asthma care often rests on accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). In Fisher, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing management, and preventative care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. A high ratio, meaning a large number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary interventions for asthma sufferers. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care, which can improve patient outcomes. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR), alongside information from insurance providers and local hospital systems, is essential to accurately determine this ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code matters. Are physicians clustered in one specific area, creating potential access challenges for residents in more remote locations? Are there adequate transportation options for patients to reach their appointments? These logistical considerations can significantly influence the overall "Asthma Score." Furthermore, the type of primary care practices available is relevant. Do practices offer comprehensive services, including on-site spirometry testing (a key diagnostic tool for asthma), allergy testing, and patient education programs? Practices that integrate these services into their standard care model tend to provide a more holistic approach to asthma management.

Identifying standout practices is a key component of this analysis. These practices may demonstrate exemplary asthma care through various means. This could include a proactive approach to patient education, utilizing asthma action plans tailored to individual needs, and consistently monitoring patients' asthma control. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those offered by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), are also likely to provide superior care. Reviews from patients, accessible through online platforms and patient surveys, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care delivered.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Fisher. It allows for more frequent check-ins, medication adjustments, and educational sessions, all of which can contribute to better asthma control. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits and medication refills, deserve recognition. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma care is mental health. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively affect treatment adherence. The presence of mental health resources within the primary care setting or readily accessible through referrals is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care and offer access to therapists or counselors demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health professionals is essential to provide comprehensive support for patients struggling with the psychological impact of asthma.

The "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP code 26818, and primary care availability in Fisher, will be determined by weighting the factors discussed. The physician-to-patient ratio, the geographic distribution of PCPs, the availability of comprehensive services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources will all be considered. Practices that excel in multiple areas will receive higher scores. The final score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care in the area, providing a valuable benchmark for residents and healthcare providers.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the asthma care landscape in Fisher. This information can be used by residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively. The "Asthma Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to providing the best possible care for individuals living with asthma.

The information presented in this analysis is a starting point. To truly understand the nuances of healthcare access and quality, a visual representation is often invaluable. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing the distribution of healthcare providers, identifying areas with limited access, and highlighting disparities in care. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fisher and other areas.