24870, Oceana, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24870, Oceana, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.76 percent of the residents in 24870 has some form of health insurance. 62.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.94 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 24870 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 255 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24870. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 114 health care providers accessible to residents in 24870, Oceana, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Oceana, WV (ZIP Code 24870)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Oceana, West Virginia (ZIP code 24870) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, painting a clear picture of the community's health infrastructure and its ability to serve the population.

Oceana, a town nestled in the heart of Wyoming County, faces unique challenges common to many rural communities. These include geographic isolation, economic hardship, and a historically underserved healthcare system. Understanding these factors is crucial to accurately assessing the health environment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most critical indicators of community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly reflects the accessibility of care. In rural areas, this ratio often lags behind national averages. The data for 24870 needs to be carefully examined, comparing the number of active primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code to the total population. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for care, and potentially, delayed or neglected preventative care.

Primary care availability is intrinsically linked to this ratio. Are there enough PCPs accepting new patients? Are there urgent care clinics available for immediate needs? The presence of a federally qualified health center (FQHC) or similar safety-net providers can significantly impact access for low-income and uninsured residents. These centers often provide a range of services, including primary care, dental, and behavioral health, at reduced costs. Research into the specific providers operating within and around 24870 is essential to understand the true availability of primary care services.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the range of services offered. This requires analyzing patient reviews, examining the types of accreditations and certifications held by the practices, and assessing the availability of specialized services. Are there any practices that consistently receive high ratings for patient experience? Do any offer innovative programs or specialized care that addresses specific health needs within the community?

The impact of these standout practices extends beyond individual patient care. They can serve as models for other providers, driving improvements in the overall quality of care. They can also attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals, which is crucial for maintaining a stable and effective healthcare workforce in a rural setting.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap:**

Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to overcome geographic barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within 24870 involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and the use of telehealth platforms by local providers.

The benefits of telemedicine are numerous. It can reduce travel time and costs for patients, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring of chronic conditions. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires adequate broadband internet access, patient and provider digital literacy, and the integration of telehealth into existing workflows. The analysis must consider the infrastructure and resources available to support telemedicine adoption within the community.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Need:**

Mental health is a significant public health concern, and access to mental health services is often limited in rural communities. Evaluating the mental health resources available in 24870 requires assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are there any mental health clinics or support groups within the area? Are mental health services integrated into primary care practices?

The analysis should also consider the availability of crisis intervention services, such as hotlines and mobile crisis teams. Addressing mental health needs is crucial for overall community well-being, and the availability of these resources can have a profound impact on the health outcomes of residents. The opioid crisis, which has significantly impacted West Virginia, necessitates a specific focus on addiction treatment and mental health services.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, an 'Overall Health Score' for 24870 can be developed. This score would reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the community's healthcare infrastructure. A higher score would indicate greater access to care, a higher quality of services, and a more robust support system for mental health. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine services, or bolstering mental health resources.

The 'Overall Health Score' should be viewed as a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare services evolve. Regular reassessments are necessary to track progress and identify emerging needs. The score should be used as a tool to inform community health initiatives, advocate for policy changes, and improve the overall health and well-being of the residents of Oceana.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the health landscape of Oceana, WV, requires a comprehensive analysis. The availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all play a crucial role in shaping the community's overall health.

For a visual representation of the health data in Oceana, WV, and to see how it compares to other areas, explore the power of spatial analysis. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize the health data and gain deeper insights into the healthcare landscape of 24870 and beyond.**