24946, Hillsboro, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24946, Hillsboro, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.71 percent of the residents in 24946 has some form of health insurance. 60.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.81 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 24946 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24946. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 364 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 87 health care providers accessible to residents in 24946, Hillsboro, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hillsboro, WV (ZIP Code 24946)

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 24946, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in Hillsboro, West Virginia. The evaluation considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. This score is not a definitive judgment but rather an informed overview based on publicly available data and industry insights.

The foundation of a healthy community rests upon accessible primary care. Hillsboro, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a potential shortage of physicians and limited resources compared to more urban settings. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Publicly accessible data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the U.S. Census Bureau must be consulted to calculate this. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, signals potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and receiving ongoing care. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses and preventative care, negatively impacting the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves researching the quality of care offered by the existing medical providers. Are there any practices recognized for patient satisfaction, positive health outcomes, or specialized services? Reviewing online patient reviews, if available, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Examining the practice's accreditations, such as those from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) or the Joint Commission, can also indicate a commitment to quality and safety. The presence of a practice with a strong reputation significantly boosts the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a critical aspect of modern healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Hillsboro to access specialists and receive consultations without extensive travel. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration within the existing primary care practices is vital. Do they offer virtual appointments? Do they utilize remote monitoring technologies? Practices embracing telemedicine contribute positively to the overall health score by increasing access to care and improving patient convenience.

Mental health resources are another crucial component of a healthy community. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is paramount. Does the area have access to these professionals? Are there community mental health centers or support groups available? The presence of accessible mental health services directly impacts the overall health score. A lack of such resources can lead to untreated mental illnesses, exacerbating other health problems and diminishing the quality of life.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized care within or near the ZIP code must be considered. While primary care forms the cornerstone, access to specialists like cardiologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists is essential for comprehensive healthcare. The necessity to travel long distances for specialist appointments can create a barrier to care and negatively affect the overall health score. The presence of nearby hospitals or specialty clinics significantly improves the healthcare landscape.

The overall health score for Hillsboro, WV (ZIP Code 24946) is therefore a complex calculation. It hinges on the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of well-regarded primary care practices, a high degree of telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and convenient access to specialized care. Conversely, a low score would suggest a shortage of physicians, limited access to quality care, minimal telemedicine integration, a scarcity of mental health services, and significant travel requirements for specialized care.

The analysis must also consider the demographics of the population. Factors like age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence the healthcare needs of the community. Addressing these needs effectively requires a nuanced understanding of the population's health profile. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can provide valuable insights.

The score is not static; it is dynamic. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare policies emerging regularly. Therefore, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to maintain an accurate assessment of the overall health score. Regularly updating the analysis with the latest available data is crucial.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for ZIP Code 24946 in Hillsboro, West Virginia, is likely impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources will significantly influence the score. A comprehensive analysis that considers all these factors is essential for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Hillsboro and other areas, consider exploring the power of spatial data. CartoChrome maps can help you gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution.