24817, Bradshaw, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24817, Bradshaw, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.01 percent of the residents in 24817 has some form of health insurance. 75.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.41 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 24817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 597 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24817. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 264 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 433 health care providers accessible to residents in 24817, Bradshaw, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Bradshaw, WV (ZIP Code 24817)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Bradshaw, West Virginia, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering various factors that contribute to the well-being of its residents. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in maintaining community health. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, examine the presence of standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the specified ZIP code. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

Bradshaw, located in McDowell County, faces unique challenges common to many rural communities. These include geographic isolation, economic hardship, and limited access to healthcare services. Understanding these contextual factors is essential to accurately evaluate the healthcare environment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

One of the most significant indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reflects the number of physicians available to serve a specific population. In Bradshaw, and McDowell County in general, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be significantly higher than the national average. This indicates a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for care, and a strain on existing healthcare providers. Accurately determining the precise ratio requires detailed data analysis, including the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code and the total population served. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) would be instrumental in generating this specific ratio.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, and the range of services offered. Practices that have achieved recognition for their quality, such as those accredited by the Joint Commission or other reputable organizations, are indicators of a commitment to high standards. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, within a primary care setting can also enhance the overall health score by offering comprehensive care. Further research into the specific practices within Bradshaw is needed to assess these factors.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care providers in Bradshaw is a critical factor in the overall health score. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, expand access to specialists, and improve patient convenience. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and other telehealth capabilities. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is also a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health resources in Bradshaw is an essential component of the health score assessment. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors, and other mental health professionals. Assessing the availability of these resources involves determining the number of providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Factors such as insurance acceptance and wait times for appointments are also important considerations. The presence of support groups and community-based mental health programs further enhances the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, an overall health score can be determined for Bradshaw. This score would be a composite measure, taking into account the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Given the challenges associated with rural healthcare, Bradshaw likely faces significant hurdles in achieving a high health score. The scarcity of physicians, limited access to specialized care, and potential barriers to telemedicine adoption could negatively impact the score. However, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers and community initiatives could mitigate some of these challenges.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Improving the overall health score in Bradshaw requires a multi-pronged approach. Strategies should focus on attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding access to specialized care, promoting telemedicine adoption, and strengthening mental health services. This might involve offering financial incentives to physicians, supporting the development of telehealth infrastructure, and increasing funding for mental health programs. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is crucial for implementing effective solutions.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the overall health landscape in Bradshaw, West Virginia, requires a comprehensive understanding of the local context and a thorough evaluation of key healthcare indicators. While challenges exist, addressing these issues through targeted interventions can significantly improve the health and well-being of the community.

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