41604, Beaver, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 41604, Beaver, Kentucky is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 41604 has some form of health insurance. 66.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.05 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 41604 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 156 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41604. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 44 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 429 health care providers accessible to residents in 41604, Beaver, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 41604 & Primary Care Availability in Beaver

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 41604, which encompasses the town of Beaver, Kentucky, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care. In Beaver, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. This involves not just the raw number of doctors but also their distribution, their acceptance of new patients, and the ease with which appointments can be secured. Geographic isolation, a characteristic of many rural communities, can exacerbate challenges in accessing healthcare. The distance residents must travel to reach a primary care physician significantly impacts their ability to receive timely and consistent medical attention.

Calculating the physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial metric for understanding the potential strain on existing healthcare resources. A low ratio, indicating a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, often translates to longer wait times for appointments and a higher workload for each physician. This can impact the quality of care and the overall health outcomes within the community. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure are essential for accurately determining this ratio.

Identifying standout medical practices within ZIP code 41604 is crucial. These practices, often characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, innovative approaches, and positive patient outcomes, can serve as models for other healthcare providers. Factors to consider include the practice’s use of technology, its patient satisfaction scores, its accreditation status, and its participation in community health initiatives. Are there practices that embrace a team-based approach to care, involving nurses, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive support to patients?

The adoption of telemedicine, particularly in rural areas like Beaver, can be a game-changer. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to specialists who may not be available locally. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to mental health services. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and the integration of remote patient monitoring technologies, is a key factor in assessing the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a significant determinant of community well-being. Access to mental health services is often limited in rural areas, and this can be exacerbated by factors like stigma and a lack of transportation. The presence of mental health clinics, the availability of telehealth options for mental health services, and the integration of mental health care into primary care settings are all important considerations.

To formulate the "Overall Health Score," each of the factors discussed above must be weighted and analyzed. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score, while a robust telemedicine program would positively influence it. The availability of mental health resources would also be weighted heavily, recognizing the critical role of mental well-being in overall health.

The final score should reflect the complex interplay of these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 41604. This score should be viewed as a snapshot in time, acknowledging that healthcare is a dynamic field, and the availability of resources and services can change.

The assessment should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the healthcare providers in the area. Factors like age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can significantly impact healthcare needs. Tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the population is a critical aspect of providing effective care.

Furthermore, the assessment should consider the role of community health initiatives. Efforts to promote healthy lifestyles, such as wellness programs, health education campaigns, and community-based screenings, can significantly impact the overall health of the population. The presence and effectiveness of these initiatives should be factored into the overall health score.

The overall health score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used and the factors considered. This will allow stakeholders, including residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, to understand the basis for the score and to identify areas where improvements are needed.

Finally, the assessment should be forward-looking, identifying opportunities for improvement and recommending strategies to enhance the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 41604. This might include recommendations for expanding access to primary care, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, increasing the availability of mental health resources, and supporting community health initiatives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Beaver, Kentucky, and a deeper dive into the data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing health data, identifying areas of need, and making informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.