24962, Pence Springs, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24962, Pence Springs, West Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24962 has some form of health insurance. 59.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.35 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 24962 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24962. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 459 health care providers accessible to residents in 24962, Pence Springs, West Virginia.

The following analysis provides an ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment for medical resources within ZIP Code 24962, encompassing Pence Springs, West Virginia, focusing on primary care availability and related factors. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview, acknowledging the unique challenges and opportunities presented by a rural setting. The score is inherently subjective, based on available data and informed assumptions, and should not be considered a definitive medical endorsement.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access**

One of the most critical indicators of health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas like Pence Springs, this ratio often presents a significant challenge. While precise figures for 24962 are difficult to obtain without access to proprietary databases, it's reasonable to assume a ratio that is less favorable compared to urban centers. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a potentially larger population spread over a wider geographical area. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and increased travel distances for patients.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the cornerstone of a robust healthcare system. PCPs act as gatekeepers, providing initial diagnoses, coordinating care, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. The presence of a sufficient number of PCPs is crucial for managing chronic conditions, addressing acute illnesses, and promoting overall wellness. The analysis considers the number of active PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, as well as the availability of clinics and other healthcare facilities.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Infrastructure**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative practices. Practices that embrace patient-centered care, offering extended hours, same-day appointments, and online portals for communication, are likely to receive higher marks. The presence of accredited facilities, such as hospitals or urgent care centers, also contributes to the overall health score. The assessment considers the range of services offered, including diagnostic capabilities, laboratory services, and specialist referrals.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities plays a vital role. The condition of the buildings, the availability of modern equipment, and the overall cleanliness and organization of the facilities are all considered. Practices that invest in their infrastructure demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care in a comfortable and efficient environment.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. It allows patients to access medical consultations, follow-up appointments, and even specialized care remotely, overcoming geographical barriers. The adoption of telemedicine by practices within 24962 is a significant factor in the overall health score. Practices that offer telemedicine options, whether through video conferencing, phone consultations, or remote monitoring, are better equipped to serve their patients and improve access to care.

The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the patient's comfort level with technology, and the ability of the practice to integrate telemedicine into its workflow. Practices that provide training and support to patients and staff are more likely to achieve successful telemedicine implementation.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial component of the health score. The assessment considers the number of mental health providers practicing within the ZIP code, as well as the availability of mental health services at local clinics and hospitals.

The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is also a significant factor. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists are better equipped to address the mental health needs of their patients. The availability of crisis intervention services and support for individuals struggling with substance abuse is also considered.

**Specific Considerations for Pence Springs (24962)**

Pence Springs, being a rural community, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The limited population density and geographical isolation contribute to the difficulties in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. The assessment acknowledges these challenges and considers the efforts made by local healthcare providers to overcome them. This includes the use of mobile clinics, outreach programs, and partnerships with regional healthcare systems.

The assessment also considers the socioeconomic factors that may impact health outcomes in Pence Springs. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited educational opportunities can all contribute to health disparities. Healthcare providers that are actively involved in addressing these social determinants of health are likely to receive higher marks.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available information, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for healthcare resources within ZIP Code 24962 is likely to be below the national average. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be less favorable, and access to specialized care may be limited. However, the score can be improved by the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the presence of patient-centered practices.

The specific score cannot be accurately quantified without access to detailed, proprietary data. The score is a relative assessment based on the factors discussed. The score is impacted by the size of the population, the availability of physicians, the infrastructure of the healthcare facilities, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in a specific area is critical for informed decision-making. While this analysis provides a general overview, visualizing the data geographically can offer deeper insights. Explore the healthcare resources in 24962 and beyond with CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools provide a powerful way to visualize physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant healthcare data.