24910, Alderson, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24910, Alderson, West Virginia is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.09 percent of the residents in 24910 has some form of health insurance. 51.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.58 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 24910 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 744 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24910. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,035 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 714 health care providers accessible to residents in 24910, Alderson, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Alderson, WV (ZIP Code 24910)

Assessing the overall health score for a community necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering not only the presence of healthcare providers but also the accessibility, quality, and range of services available. This analysis focuses on Alderson, West Virginia (ZIP Code 24910), evaluating the availability of primary care physicians and related healthcare resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of a healthy community rests upon the availability of primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data suggests that rural areas often face challenges in this regard. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within Alderson requires accessing specific, up-to-date data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, it is reasonable to anticipate a ratio that is less favorable compared to more urbanized areas. This scarcity can place a significant burden on the existing primary care physicians, potentially impacting their ability to provide comprehensive care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is equally important. Identifying standout practices within Alderson requires a review of patient reviews, accreditations, and the scope of services offered. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have a strong focus on preventative care, such as regular checkups and screenings? Furthermore, the availability of specialized services, such as chronic disease management programs for conditions like diabetes or heart disease, can significantly impact the overall health score. Investigating the presence of these specialized services, along with patient satisfaction ratings, is crucial to understanding the quality of care available.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in modern healthcare. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, connecting patients with physicians remotely. This is particularly beneficial in rural areas where access to specialists might be limited. The extent of telemedicine adoption within Alderson’s primary care practices needs to be assessed. Are virtual appointments offered for routine checkups, medication management, or specialist consultations? The ability to leverage technology to deliver healthcare can significantly improve access and convenience for patients.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is critical. Assessing the presence of these resources within Alderson involves determining the number of mental health providers, the types of services they offer (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (insurance acceptance, wait times). Furthermore, the presence of community-based mental health support programs and resources, such as support groups or crisis intervention services, can significantly enhance the overall health score.

Another important element is the availability of ancillary services. This includes access to diagnostic testing, such as X-rays and blood work, and the presence of pharmacies within the community. Easy access to these services ensures that patients can receive timely diagnoses and treatment. The proximity of a hospital or urgent care facility is also a critical factor. In the event of an emergency, quick access to these facilities can be life-saving.

Beyond the direct provision of medical services, the health score is also influenced by broader community factors. These include the socioeconomic status of the population, access to healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity. A community with a higher poverty rate, limited access to nutritious food, and a lack of recreational facilities may experience poorer health outcomes. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for improving the overall health score.

The analysis of healthcare in Alderson should also consider the role of public health initiatives. Are there programs aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation programs or weight management classes? Does the local health department offer preventative services, such as vaccinations and health screenings? The presence and effectiveness of these initiatives can significantly contribute to the overall health of the community.

In conclusion, determining an accurate overall health score for Alderson, WV (ZIP Code 24910) requires a detailed assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of ancillary services. It also necessitates an understanding of broader community factors and public health initiatives. While a comprehensive analysis requires specific data collection and research, this framework provides a foundation for evaluating the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Alderson and surrounding areas, including the locations of providers, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome.