24951, Lindside, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24951, Lindside, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.83 percent of the residents in 24951 has some form of health insurance. 47.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.56 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 24951 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 207 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24951. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 533 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 157 health care providers accessible to residents in 24951, Lindside, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 24951 & Primary Care Availability in Lindside

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 24951, encompassing the community of Lindside, requires a multifaceted approach. We must delve beyond simple physician counts and consider factors impacting access, quality, and the overall well-being of residents. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The initial assessment begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric is crucial for gauging access to care. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can indicate potential challenges in scheduling appointments, longer wait times, and a less personalized experience. Data from various sources suggests a potentially strained physician-to-patient ratio within 24951. This rural area, like many others, often struggles with physician recruitment and retention, leading to a shortage of primary care providers. This shortage directly impacts the overall health score, as it presents a significant barrier to timely and consistent healthcare.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the cornerstone of a healthy community. PCPs provide preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and serve as the initial point of contact for most health concerns. The limited number of PCPs in Lindside necessitates a focus on accessibility. Are practices accepting new patients? What are the average wait times for appointments? Are there extended hours or weekend availability? These factors significantly influence the overall health score. Limited access, long wait times, and restricted appointment availability will negatively impact the score.

Within the confines of 24951, identifying standout practices is critical. These practices may excel in patient care, embrace innovative technologies, or offer specialized services. A practice with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, a commitment to preventative care, and a focus on chronic disease management would contribute positively to the overall health score. Practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals enhance communication and streamline care, further improving the score. Conversely, practices lacking these features would be penalized.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and expand access to care. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve the overall health score. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine to provide routine check-ups, manage chronic conditions, and offer mental health services would receive a higher score. Conversely, practices resistant to telemedicine would be penalized, as they are missing opportunities to improve access and convenience.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical component of the overall health score. Mental health is often overlooked, but it is a vital aspect of overall well-being. The presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups within the community or readily accessible through referral networks is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care offerings would contribute positively to the score. The lack of mental health resources, or limited access to them, would significantly detract from the overall health score. The prevalence of mental health issues, coupled with limited resources, can create a significant public health challenge.

Beyond the direct provision of care, community health initiatives and partnerships also impact the overall health score. Are there programs promoting healthy lifestyles, such as exercise classes or nutrition education? Are there collaborations between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations? These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and community well-being, positively impacting the score. The absence of such initiatives would negatively impact the score, indicating a lack of comprehensive community support for health.

Considering all these factors, the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 24951, specifically considering primary care availability in Lindside, is likely moderate. The area faces challenges due to its rural location, including a potentially strained physician-to-patient ratio and potential limitations in primary care access. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services are crucial for improving the score. The presence of standout practices and community health initiatives can help mitigate some of the challenges. However, the overall score is likely hampered by the inherent difficulties of providing healthcare in a rural setting.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 24951 and other areas, consider utilizing advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps offers a comprehensive platform for visualizing healthcare data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care indicators. By leveraging CartoChrome maps, you can gain valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with unmet needs, and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.