24712, Athens, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24712, Athens, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.79 percent of the residents in 24712 has some form of health insurance. 54.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.94 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 24712 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 790 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24712. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 399 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,409 health care providers accessible to residents in 24712, Athens, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Athens, WV (ZIP Code 24712) and Primary Care Availability

Analyzing the overall health score for residents within ZIP Code 24712, encompassing Athens, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, quality of care, access to specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. Further, we'll examine the broader context of primary care availability within the Athens area, noting the interplay between local resources and the health needs of the community.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical starting point. While specific, up-to-the-minute data can fluctuate, a general assessment suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians in the region. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes for residents. The relative isolation of Athens, coupled with the challenges of attracting and retaining medical professionals in rural areas, contributes to this situation. The presence of a university, Concord University, may offer some positive influence through medical students and clinical rotations, but this alone is unlikely to fully compensate for the overall need.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize innovative technologies, and actively engage with the community deserve recognition. These practices often prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and employ a diverse team of healthcare professionals, including nurses, physician assistants, and behavioral health specialists. They may also actively participate in local health initiatives and collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure seamless patient care. The level of patient satisfaction, as measured through surveys and online reviews, provides valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in assessing the overall health score. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services offered remotely, are important indicators of the community's health infrastructure. Successful telemedicine programs can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for costly emergency room visits.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. Access to these services, including affordability and insurance coverage, significantly impacts the overall health score. Integration of mental healthcare within primary care settings can improve early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. Furthermore, the presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services contributes to a more comprehensive mental healthcare system.

Primary care availability within Athens, beyond the specific ZIP code, provides a broader context. The location of primary care clinics, their capacity to accept new patients, and the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, women's health, pediatric care) all play a role. Proximity to hospitals and specialized medical facilities, such as specialists in cardiology, oncology, and dermatology, also contributes to the overall health score. The availability of transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles, is crucial for accessing healthcare services.

The health of the community is also affected by social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, education levels, access to healthy food, and housing conditions. These factors can significantly impact health outcomes and must be considered when assessing the overall health score. The presence of community health programs, such as food banks, free clinics, and educational initiatives, can help address these social determinants and improve the health of the population.

Evaluating the quality of care requires a thorough assessment of various factors. This includes the credentials and experience of healthcare providers, the use of evidence-based practices, the implementation of quality improvement initiatives, and the patient outcomes. The level of patient satisfaction, as measured through surveys and feedback mechanisms, provides valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these systems can improve care coordination and patient safety.

The overall health score for Athens, WV (ZIP Code 24712) and the surrounding area is a dynamic measure. It is impacted by numerous factors. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health resource availability are constantly evolving, a comprehensive assessment requires a multifaceted approach. This includes analyzing physician availability, the quality of care provided, the integration of technology, and the accessibility of specialized services. The community's overall health is a product of the resources available, the dedication of healthcare providers, and the active participation of residents in their own health.

The challenges of rural healthcare are evident in the Athens area. However, a proactive approach, involving collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government, can lead to improvements in access to care, the quality of services, and the overall health of the community. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Athens, WV (ZIP Code 24712) and its surrounding areas, including the locations of healthcare providers, the distribution of health resources, and the demographic characteristics of the population, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.