24918, Ballard, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24918, Ballard, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.31 percent of the residents in 24918 has some form of health insurance. 59.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.10 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 24918 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 526 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24918. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 276 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 85 health care providers accessible to residents in 24918, Ballard, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 24918 and Primary Care Availability in Ballard

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 24918, which encompasses the community of Ballard, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis moves beyond simple metrics to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, considering physician availability, quality of care, and access to essential services. This evaluation will also examine the primary care availability in Ballard, a critical component of overall community health.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. In Ballard, the physician-to-patient ratio warrants close scrutiny. A detailed assessment would require data on the total number of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers actively practicing within the ZIP Code, compared to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards would be essential in determining this ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care offered by medical practices is paramount. This involves evaluating factors such as board certifications, patient satisfaction scores, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Identifying standout practices requires researching physician qualifications, reviewing patient testimonials, and analyzing performance metrics if available. Practices that consistently demonstrate high patient satisfaction, employ advanced technologies, and adhere to established clinical guidelines would likely rank higher in an overall health score assessment.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant trend in modern healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can enhance access to care by enabling virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management. The degree to which doctors in ZIP Code 24918 have embraced telemedicine is a key factor. This involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote patient monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing practice workflows. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine to improve patient access and convenience would receive favorable consideration.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Ballard requires examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counseling centers. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also a crucial consideration. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have strong referral networks with mental health providers, would be viewed more positively. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and educational programs focused on mental health would contribute to a higher overall health score.

Primary care availability in Ballard, as a subset of the overall health assessment, requires specific focus. Primary care physicians serve as the first point of contact for most healthcare needs, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The number of primary care physicians actively practicing in Ballard, their acceptance of new patients, and their geographic distribution within the community are essential factors. Areas with limited primary care access, particularly for vulnerable populations, would negatively impact the overall health score.

The accessibility of primary care services also includes the availability of after-hours care, weekend appointments, and same-day appointments for urgent needs. Practices that offer flexible scheduling options and convenient access to care would be viewed favorably. Additionally, the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, is a crucial factor in ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of Ballard.

The presence of specialized services, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, also contributes to the overall health score. While primary care forms the foundation, the availability of specialists within or near the community reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care. The presence of a local hospital or medical center, offering a range of services and emergency care, is another critical component.

Data collection is critical for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), state health departments, and local hospital websites, can provide valuable information. Patient reviews and testimonials, available on platforms like Healthgrades or Zocdoc, offer insights into patient experiences. However, it is important to approach these reviews with a critical eye, considering potential biases.

A comprehensive analysis would also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to healthy food can negatively impact health. While this analysis focuses on healthcare providers, understanding the broader social determinants of health is essential for a holistic assessment.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP Code 24918 and primary care availability in Ballard is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The arrival of new providers, the adoption of new technologies, and changes in patient needs can all impact the score.

In conclusion, evaluating the health landscape in ZIP Code 24918 and primary care availability in Ballard requires a comprehensive and data-driven approach. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to primary care, a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the community's health is possible. This assessment should serve as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in Ballard and surrounding areas, explore the power of spatial data and interactive mapping. **Visit CartoChrome maps to gain deeper insights into healthcare access and resource distribution.**