42782, Summersville, Kentucky Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 42782, Summersville, Kentucky is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.28 percent of the residents in 42782 has some form of health insurance. 59.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.80 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 42782 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 136 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42782. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 155 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 42782, Summersville, Kentucky.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Summersville, KY (ZIP Code 42782)

Summersville, Kentucky, nestled within the 42782 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and quality. Assessing the overall health score necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of several key factors, ranging from physician availability to the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide a granular perspective on the state of healthcare within this community, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is the availability of primary care physicians. In Summersville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater ease of access to care, allowing for more proactive management of health concerns. Determining the precise ratio requires analyzing the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and comparing it to the total population. This data, often sourced from state medical boards and demographic databases, provides a fundamental understanding of the community's primary care capacity.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. "Standout practices" are those that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, often characterized by factors such as patient satisfaction scores, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the integration of technology to improve patient outcomes. Identifying these practices involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and evaluating the availability of specialized services within the practice. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and provide a welcoming environment for patients are likely to contribute significantly to a higher overall health score.

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely via technology, has become increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas like Summersville. Its adoption can significantly impact the overall health score by expanding access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms within local practices. Practices that embrace telemedicine can effectively extend their reach and provide convenient access to care, contributing to a more positive health score.

Mental health resources are another crucial component of overall community health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is a key indicator of the community's ability to address mental health needs. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the number of mental health providers practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, appointment availability). Communities with robust mental health resources tend to exhibit better overall health outcomes.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a significant factor. This integrated approach allows for early identification and treatment of mental health conditions, improving patient outcomes and reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health care. Practices that prioritize this integration contribute positively to the overall health score.

In addition to the factors discussed above, other considerations can influence the overall health score. These include the prevalence of chronic diseases, the availability of specialized medical services (e.g., cardiology, dermatology), and the presence of community health programs and initiatives. Analyzing these factors provides a more complete picture of the community's health landscape.

The Summersville community's overall health score can be improved by addressing the challenges identified in this analysis. Investing in primary care infrastructure, attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources are all critical steps. Furthermore, fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government can create a more integrated and patient-centered healthcare system.

Data collection and analysis are essential for accurately determining the overall health score. This requires gathering information from various sources, including healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations. The analysis should be ongoing, allowing for continuous monitoring of progress and identification of areas for improvement.

By prioritizing these factors and continually evaluating the healthcare landscape, Summersville can strive to improve its overall health score and create a healthier community for its residents. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the current state of healthcare in the 42782 ZIP code. Further investigation, incorporating detailed data analysis and community engagement, is crucial for developing targeted interventions and achieving meaningful improvements in health outcomes.