24731, Kegley, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24731, Kegley, West Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.43 percent of the residents in 24731 has some form of health insurance. 16.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.62 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 24731 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 18 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24731. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,400 health care providers accessible to residents in 24731, Kegley, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24731 & Kegley Primary Care

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 24731, focusing specifically on the availability and quality of primary care services, with a particular emphasis on the town of Kegley. We will assess various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this area.

The foundation of a healthy community rests upon readily accessible and high-quality primary care. In ZIP Code 24731, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of this accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Data on this ratio needs to be carefully examined. Publicly available resources, such as those from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide valuable insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. Further investigation into the specific specialties of these physicians, such as family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics, is vital to determine if the community's needs are adequately met.

Within the 24731 ZIP code, identifying standout medical practices is essential. These practices often serve as models for best practices in patient care. Factors that would contribute to a practice being deemed "standout" include: a commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by positive patient reviews and testimonials; the implementation of innovative technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient information management and patient communication; and a focus on preventative care, including regular checkups, screenings, and health education. Practices that have achieved recognition from professional organizations or accreditation bodies also deserve consideration.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant element of the overall health score. Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely via technology, has the potential to improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The extent to which practices in 24731 have embraced telemedicine, offering services such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, will significantly impact the overall health score. An evaluation of the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan is needed.

Mental health resources are integral to overall well-being. The availability of mental health services within ZIP Code 24731 is a crucial factor. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and counselors. The accessibility of these services, including the availability of appointments, insurance acceptance, and the presence of sliding-scale fees for those with limited financial resources, must be assessed. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, allowing for a more holistic approach to patient care, is a positive indicator.

The town of Kegley, situated within the 24731 ZIP code, requires specific attention. An examination of primary care availability within Kegley itself is vital. Does Kegley have its own primary care practices, or do residents need to travel to other locations within the ZIP code for care? The proximity of primary care providers to Kegley residents is a significant factor influencing access to care. Transportation challenges, particularly for elderly or disabled individuals, can exacerbate the impact of limited primary care options.

Furthermore, an assessment of any community health initiatives or programs specific to Kegley is necessary. Are there any local organizations or partnerships working to improve health outcomes in Kegley? This could include programs focused on disease prevention, health education, or access to healthy food options. The presence of such initiatives can positively influence the overall health score.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 24731, and specifically for Kegley, is not a static number. It is a reflection of a complex interplay of factors. A high score indicates robust primary care availability, a high physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests challenges in these areas, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes for residents. Regular monitoring and evaluation of these factors are crucial for identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategies to enhance the health and well-being of the community.

The data gathered for this analysis would be greatly enhanced by visualization. Consider using CartoChrome maps to overlay the data. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, displaying the location of physicians, the distribution of resources, and the areas with the greatest need. This visual approach would allow for a more intuitive understanding of the health landscape.