24924, Buckeye, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24924, Buckeye, West Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24924 has some form of health insurance. 83.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.44 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 24924 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 17 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24924. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 164 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 85 health care providers accessible to residents in 24924, Buckeye, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24924 & Buckeye, WV

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 24924, encompassing the community of Buckeye, West Virginia, presents a complex picture. This analysis aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, factoring in primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In a rural area like Buckeye, this becomes particularly critical. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A high ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Data on this ratio within 24924 is crucial. Publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians and the estimated population they serve. This data allows for a basic calculation of the physician-to-patient ratio, which is a core component of the Overall Health Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are primary care practices concentrated in one location, or are they spread throughout the area, offering better access to residents in different parts of the community? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also significant. These facilities often serve vulnerable populations and can be a vital resource in areas with limited healthcare access. The Overall Health Score will reflect the presence and accessibility of these types of providers.

Identifying standout practices within 24924 is another important aspect of the assessment. This requires looking beyond basic metrics and delving into factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of innovative healthcare practices. Are there practices that have received awards or positive reviews? Do they offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or specialized services that address the unique needs of the community? The Overall Health Score will recognize practices that demonstrate a commitment to quality care and patient-centered service.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The extent to which primary care physicians in 24924 utilize telemedicine is a key factor in the Overall Health Score. Do they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, or other telehealth services? Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance patient convenience. Practices that embrace telehealth technologies will receive a higher score in this category.

Mental health resources are often under-resourced in rural communities. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a critical component of overall health. The analysis must assess the number of mental health providers serving the 24924 area and evaluate the accessibility of their services. Are there long wait times for appointments? Are services affordable and covered by insurance? The Overall Health Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of mental health support.

The integration of mental and physical healthcare is another critical aspect. Are primary care practices equipped to screen for mental health conditions? Do they have partnerships with mental health providers to facilitate referrals and coordinate care? The Overall Health Score will reward practices that prioritize the integration of mental and physical health services.

The Overall Health Score for 24924 will be a composite measure, weighted based on the factors discussed above. The weighting of each factor will depend on its relative importance in contributing to overall health and well-being. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be given a higher weight than the adoption of telemedicine, reflecting the fundamental importance of access to primary care.

The analysis will also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the healthcare providers in 24924. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and chronic disease prevalence can impact healthcare needs and resource allocation. The Overall Health Score will reflect an understanding of these demographic factors and how they influence the healthcare landscape.

Data collection for this analysis will involve a combination of publicly available information, such as data from HRSA and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and potentially, information gathered through surveys or interviews with healthcare providers and community members. The goal is to create a comprehensive and accurate assessment of the healthcare ecosystem in 24924.

The final Overall Health Score will be presented as a numerical value, along with a narrative summary of the findings. The summary will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Buckeye, WV, and identify areas for improvement. It will also offer recommendations for how to enhance access to care, improve the quality of services, and address the unique healthcare needs of the community.

This analysis is not just about assigning a score; it is about understanding the complexities of healthcare delivery in a rural environment and identifying opportunities to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Buckeye, West Virginia. The ultimate goal is to provide valuable insights that can inform healthcare planning, resource allocation, and community development efforts.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within 24924, consider exploring the power of maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and visually compelling way to understand the healthcare landscape.