24724, Freeman, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24724, Freeman, West Virginia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.67 percent of the residents in 24724 has some form of health insurance. 84.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.96 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 24724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 38 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,412 health care providers accessible to residents in 24724, Freeman, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24724 and Primary Care in Freeman

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 24724, encompassing the town of Freeman, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the physician-to-patient ratio, explore the presence of standout medical practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' reflecting the community's access to and quality of healthcare.

The foundation of any healthy community rests upon readily available primary care physicians. In Freeman (ZIP code 24724), the number of practicing primary care physicians directly impacts the health of the population. A low number, relative to the population size, can lead to delayed care, increased wait times, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a robust primary care presence facilitates preventative care, early diagnosis, and effective management of chronic conditions. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. This metric reveals the number of patients each physician is responsible for, offering a glimpse into the potential workload and accessibility of care. A high ratio can indicate an overburdened system, while a lower ratio suggests greater access.

Identifying standout medical practices is crucial. These practices often serve as beacons of quality, innovation, and patient-centered care. They might be recognized for their commitment to preventative medicine, their expertise in managing specific conditions, or their dedication to patient education. These practices can be assessed by looking at patient reviews, accreditations, and outcomes data, if available. Their presence contributes positively to the overall health score by raising the standard of care within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor in evaluating the health landscape. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Freeman. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians, receive diagnoses, and manage chronic conditions from the comfort of their homes. The degree to which local practices have embraced telemedicine technologies, including video conferencing, remote monitoring, and secure messaging, directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of healthcare for residents.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial for addressing the growing need for mental healthcare. Assessing the presence of these resources, as well as the availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health awareness programs, provides a more holistic view of the community's health. A lack of adequate mental health resources can negatively impact the overall health score, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.

The assessment of primary care availability in Freeman involves identifying the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners. The data should be sourced from reputable medical directories, insurance provider networks, and local healthcare organizations. The number of physicians should then be compared to the population of Freeman to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is a key indicator of access to care.

To identify standout practices, a thorough review of patient reviews, online ratings, and professional accreditations is necessary. Examining patient testimonials, reviewing the practice's website for information on services offered, and checking for any awards or recognitions can help identify practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence. The practice’s integration of technology, including electronic health records and patient portals, should also be considered.

Telemedicine adoption in Freeman can be assessed by contacting local medical practices and inquiring about their telemedicine capabilities. This includes asking about the types of services offered via telemedicine, the platforms used, and the availability of virtual appointments. The presence of telemedicine services indicates a commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

Evaluating mental health resources requires a comprehensive search for mental health professionals and support services within the community. This involves searching online directories, contacting local hospitals and clinics, and exploring community resources. The availability of mental health professionals, the presence of support groups, and the existence of crisis intervention services are all important factors to consider.

The overall health score for ZIP code 24724 and Freeman is determined by combining the assessment of these various factors. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its importance. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all considered. The final score is a reflection of the community's overall access to and quality of healthcare.

In conclusion, the health landscape in ZIP code 24724, including Freeman, is shaped by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the community's overall health score. A comprehensive analysis of these factors provides a valuable assessment of the healthcare environment and highlights areas for improvement.

To further explore and visualize the healthcare landscape in Freeman and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the health environment.