24970, Ronceverte, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 24970, Ronceverte, West Virginia is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.46 percent of the residents in 24970 has some form of health insurance. 52.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.30 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 24970 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 776 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24970. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 736 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 573 health care providers accessible to residents in 24970, Ronceverte, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ronceverte, WV (ZIP Code 24970)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Ronceverte, West Virginia, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. Ultimately, this evaluation aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" for the community, offering a comprehensive view of its healthcare accessibility and quality.

The foundation of any healthcare system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial first step. While precise, up-to-the-minute data can fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) provides valuable insights. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosing and treating illnesses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a greater availability of primary care services. Examining this ratio, and comparing it to state and national averages, helps determine the relative strength or weakness of primary care access in Ronceverte.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the existing primary care practices are vital. The size of the practices, whether they are solo practices, group practices, or part of larger healthcare systems, impacts patient experience. Larger group practices may offer a broader range of services, including specialized care and extended hours, but may also feel less personalized. Solo practices, while potentially offering a more intimate doctor-patient relationship, might have limited resources and availability. Evaluating the types of insurance accepted by each practice, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans, is critical to understanding accessibility for different segments of the population.

Identifying standout practices is also an essential element of this analysis. This requires a review of patient reviews, online ratings, and professional accolades. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback for patient satisfaction, quality of care, and responsiveness are valuable assets to the community. Examining the specific services offered by each practice, such as chronic disease management, preventative screenings, and pediatric care, provides a more nuanced understanding of their capabilities. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and community engagement is crucial for highlighting excellence within the healthcare system.

The adoption of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas like Ronceverte. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption by local primary care practices is important. This includes determining whether practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience, enhancing the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. Evaluating the presence of mental health providers in the Ronceverte area, and their integration with primary care practices, is essential. Co-location of mental health services within primary care settings can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental health treatment. Assessing the availability of crisis intervention services and support for substance abuse disorders is also a critical component of a comprehensive health score.

The presence of community health initiatives and programs also contributes to the overall health score. This includes programs focused on preventative care, health education, and chronic disease management. Initiatives that address social determinants of health, such as food insecurity and housing instability, are particularly important in improving health outcomes. Assessing the level of community engagement by healthcare providers and the presence of partnerships with local organizations, such as schools and churches, provides a more complete picture of the community's health landscape.

Ultimately, assigning an "Overall Health Score" requires synthesizing all of these factors. The score would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community health initiatives. This score could be expressed using a numerical scale or a qualitative rating system (e.g., Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor). The score is not a static measure, but rather a snapshot of the healthcare landscape at a given point in time. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare system and community needs.

This analysis, while providing a comprehensive overview, is limited by the availability of data. Publicly available data sources often have limitations in terms of timeliness and granularity. Conducting a more in-depth analysis would involve gathering data directly from healthcare providers, conducting patient surveys, and reviewing local health statistics. This more comprehensive approach would provide a more accurate and detailed assessment of the overall health score for Ronceverte. This information is critical for community members, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions about healthcare access and quality.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ronceverte, and to compare it with surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to visualize the distribution of physicians, clinics, and other healthcare facilities within the 24970 ZIP code and beyond. They can also integrate demographic data and health statistics, providing a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare needs of the community.