24823, Coal Mountain, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24823, Coal Mountain, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.40 percent of the residents in 24823 has some form of health insurance. 73.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.48 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 24823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 201 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24823. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 85 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 205 health care providers accessible to residents in 24823, Coal Mountain, West Virginia.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Coal Mountain, WV (ZIP Code 24823)**

Assessing the overall health landscape in Coal Mountain, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of doctors. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall quality of healthcare delivery within the 24823 ZIP code. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" that reflects the current state of healthcare access and quality in this specific Appalachian community.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

A fundamental aspect of healthcare access is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Coal Mountain, the density of PCPs is a critical factor. Due to the rural nature of the area, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a significant challenge. National averages often don't accurately reflect the reality in underserved communities like this. To determine the precise ratio, we would need to analyze the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and compare it to the estimated population. This data would require cross-referencing information from the West Virginia Board of Medicine, insurance provider networks, and census data. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would negatively impact the Overall Health Score.

The geographic distribution of these physicians is also crucial. Are the available PCPs concentrated in a single location, or are they spread throughout the community, making access easier for residents in different areas? This spatial analysis helps identify potential "healthcare deserts" where access is severely limited.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. This includes the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction, and the range of services offered. Patient reviews, if available, can offer valuable insights. Accreditation by organizations like the Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) is a strong indicator of quality. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the integration of care coordination programs are also important indicators of a well-managed practice. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventive care, chronic disease management, and patient education would be given higher scores.

However, in a rural setting, access to specialists is often limited. The ability of primary care physicians to effectively manage a wide range of conditions becomes even more critical. The presence of a practice that provides comprehensive care, including diagnostic services and referrals to specialists when necessary, significantly contributes to a higher Overall Health Score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine services by local practices is a key factor in the Overall Health Score. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and the use of digital tools for patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can extend their reach, providing care to patients who may have difficulty traveling to a physical office.

The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access in the community, the willingness of patients to utilize these technologies, and the training of healthcare providers in the use of telemedicine platforms. The Overall Health Score will be positively impacted by practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their service offerings.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources in Coal Mountain is a critical component of the Overall Health Score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors (LPCs), and other mental health professionals. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is particularly important. Co-locating mental health professionals within primary care settings can facilitate early detection, improve access to care, and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

The availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and substance abuse treatment programs also contribute to a more robust mental health infrastructure. The Overall Health Score will be significantly impacted by the extent to which mental health services are accessible, integrated, and culturally sensitive to the needs of the community.

**Specifics and Data Sources**

To provide a truly accurate Overall Health Score, specific data is essential. This includes:

* **Number of practicing PCPs:** Obtained from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and insurance provider networks.
* **Population data:** From the US Census Bureau, specifically the 2020 Census and subsequent estimates.
* **Practice accreditation and quality indicators:** Information from the Joint Commission, AAAHC, and practice websites.
* **Telemedicine adoption:** Surveying local practices and reviewing their online presence.
* **Mental health resource availability:** Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, mental health provider directories, and local community organizations.
* **Patient reviews:** Gathering information from reputable online review platforms.

This data, when compiled and analyzed, will provide a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Coal Mountain.

**Conclusion and Overall Health Score Considerations**

The Overall Health Score for Coal Mountain, WV (24823) will be determined by weighting the factors discussed above. A high score will reflect a community with adequate primary care access, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, quality practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources. A low score will indicate significant challenges in these areas.

The challenges facing rural communities like Coal Mountain are complex. They require innovative solutions and collaborative efforts. The Overall Health Score is a starting point for understanding the current state of healthcare and identifying areas for improvement.

**Call to Action**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Coal Mountain and other communities, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can help visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify underserved areas, and inform strategic planning. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and quality in your community.