24916, Asbury, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24916, Asbury, West Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.28 percent of the residents in 24916 has some form of health insurance. 59.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.42 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 24916 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 104 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24916. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 187 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 640 health care providers accessible to residents in 24916, Asbury, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 24916 and Primary Care Availability in Asbury, WV

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 24916, encompassing the area of Asbury, West Virginia, requires a nuanced assessment of several interconnected factors. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' perspective, enabling a better understanding of the healthcare access and quality available to residents.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In Asbury, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial determinant of overall health. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios offers a preliminary insight. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The geographical distribution of physicians within the ZIP Code is also important. Are they concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis is essential for understanding the true accessibility of care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves significantly impact the health score. Consider factors such as the types of services offered, the hours of operation, and the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Practices offering a wider range of services, extended hours, and broad insurance acceptance contribute positively to the score. Furthermore, the patient experience is paramount. Are appointments readily available? Is the staff friendly and efficient? Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into these aspects.

Telemedicine, or the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Asbury. Its adoption by primary care practices can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote locations. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, receive a higher score. This demonstrates a commitment to innovation and patient convenience. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered virtually and the ease of use of the technology, are key considerations.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within or near ZIP Code 24916 is a critical factor. Are these resources readily accessible, or are patients forced to travel long distances for care? The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also beneficial. Co-locating mental health professionals within primary care settings can improve coordination of care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services further enhances the mental health landscape.

Standout primary care practices within the area deserve specific recognition. Identifying practices that excel in patient care, embrace technology, and offer comprehensive services is crucial. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in healthcare delivery. Factors to consider include the practice's commitment to preventive care, its use of electronic health records, and its patient-centered approach. High patient satisfaction scores and positive community feedback are strong indicators of a standout practice.

The specific challenges faced by Asbury, West Virginia, in terms of healthcare access and quality must be acknowledged. Rural communities often face unique hurdles, including physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and transportation barriers. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including efforts to attract and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine capabilities, and improve transportation options. The overall health score should reflect the community's efforts to overcome these challenges.

The presence of community health initiatives and partnerships also contributes to the overall health score. Collaborations between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies can improve access to care and promote health education. These initiatives may include health fairs, screenings, and educational programs focused on chronic disease management and preventive care. The extent and effectiveness of these partnerships are important indicators of community health.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and dermatology, within a reasonable distance is relevant. While primary care is the foundation, access to specialists is essential for managing complex health conditions. The distance patients must travel to access specialized care, and the availability of specialists who accept various insurance plans, are important considerations.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP Code 24916 and primary care availability in Asbury is a complex undertaking. It requires evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of community initiatives. The score should reflect the community's strengths and weaknesses, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. The score is not a static number; it should evolve over time, reflecting changes in healthcare access and quality.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in your area, visualize the data with CartoChrome maps. Explore physician locations, practice characteristics, and service availability in a user-friendly and interactive format.