24823, Coal Mountain, West Virginia Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 24823, Coal Mountain, West Virginia is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.40 percent of the residents in 24823 has some form of health insurance. 73.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.48 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 24823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 201 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24823. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 85 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 205 health care providers accessible to residents in 24823, Coal Mountain, West Virginia.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Coal Mountain, WV (ZIP Code 24823)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific focus on factors relevant to arthritis management, within the Coal Mountain, West Virginia area, encompassing ZIP code 24823. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" ranking, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to inform residents of Coal Mountain about the local healthcare landscape and highlight areas of strength and weakness in arthritis care.

Coal Mountain, a rural community, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. Limited population density often translates to a lower concentration of healthcare providers, impacting physician-to-patient ratios. This analysis will attempt to estimate these ratios based on publicly available data and local information. The presence of a robust primary care network is crucial for arthritis management, as primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for diagnosis, treatment, and referral to specialists like rheumatologists.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 24823 is likely to be a key determinant of the Arthritis Score. National averages are often not representative of rural areas. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for arthritis sufferers. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, combined with information from local hospitals and clinics, will be utilized to estimate this crucial metric.

Assessing the practices themselves is equally important. Standout practices will be those that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, employing evidence-based practices for arthritis management. This includes a focus on early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment plans, and patient education. The availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as X-ray machines, can streamline the diagnostic process. Practices that offer physical therapy services or have strong referral networks to physical therapists also contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Coal Mountain to access consultations with specialists, receive medication management, and participate in virtual support groups. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms, offering both video and phone consultations, will receive higher scores. The availability of telehealth options can significantly improve access to care for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, common issues for arthritis patients.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical factor. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental well-being. Practices that recognize this and offer integrated mental health services, or have strong referral partnerships with mental health professionals, will be viewed favorably. Screening for depression and anxiety, and providing resources for coping with chronic pain, are essential components of comprehensive arthritis care. The Arthritis Score will reflect the presence and accessibility of these mental health support systems.

Specific practices within 24823 will be evaluated based on their publicly available information, patient reviews, and information obtained through local sources. Identifying practices with a demonstrated commitment to arthritis care, patient education, and comprehensive treatment approaches will be central to the scoring process. Factors like the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, which can improve communication and care coordination, will also be considered.

The Arthritis Score will not be a single numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape. The analysis will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system in Coal Mountain, offering insights into the quality of arthritis care available to residents. This will include identifying areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and strengthening mental health support services.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialists, such as rheumatologists, in the surrounding areas. While Coal Mountain may not have a rheumatologist within its immediate vicinity, the ease of access to specialists in nearby towns or cities is crucial. The score will factor in the proximity of rheumatology practices and the efficiency of referral pathways.

The quality of patient education materials and resources offered by local practices will also be evaluated. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about arthritis, treatment options, and self-management strategies will receive higher scores. This includes access to educational brochures, online resources, and support groups. The ability to empower patients to actively participate in their care is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

The analysis will also consider the accessibility of prescription medications. Practices that have strong relationships with local pharmacies and can facilitate the timely filling of prescriptions will be viewed favorably. The ability to navigate insurance coverage and assist patients with medication costs is another factor that will influence the Arthritis Score.

Finally, the analysis will consider the overall patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the friendliness and responsiveness of staff, and the overall satisfaction of patients with their care. Patient reviews and testimonials will be consulted to gain insights into the patient experience at various practices. The Arthritis Score will ultimately reflect the quality, accessibility, and patient-centeredness of the primary care system in Coal Mountain, WV.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Coal Mountain and the surrounding areas, and to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to specialists, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the local healthcare ecosystem, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.