25003, Alum Creek, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25003, Alum Creek, West Virginia is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.35 percent of the residents in 25003 has some form of health insurance. 53.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.46 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 25003 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 243 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25003. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 456 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 129 health care providers accessible to residents in 25003, Alum Creek, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Alum Creek, WV (ZIP Code 25003)

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape for residents of Alum Creek, West Virginia, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within the 25003 ZIP code. We will evaluate key factors including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Alum Creek, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning a large number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a decline in the overall quality of care. Accurate data on this ratio requires accessing the latest information from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau. Publicly available data may be somewhat dated, so the assessment will emphasize general trends and observations rather than precise numerical values.

The presence of standout practices can significantly impact the overall health score. These practices often distinguish themselves through a commitment to patient-centered care, advanced technologies, and a comprehensive approach to health management. Identifying these practices involves analyzing patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and examining their accreditation status. Factors like extended hours, same-day appointments, and the availability of specialized services within the practice contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in modern healthcare. It can improve access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas like Alum Creek, by reducing the need for travel and offering greater flexibility in scheduling appointments. The extent to which local primary care physicians and practices have embraced telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, directly influences the overall health score. Practices that readily offer telemedicine options score higher.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for addressing the mental well-being of the community. The analysis considers the number of mental health providers available, the accessibility of these services (e.g., accepting new patients, insurance coverage), and the presence of any community-based mental health programs.

The overall health score is a composite assessment, incorporating the factors discussed above. It reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare services available to residents of Alum Creek. A higher score indicates a healthier healthcare environment, while a lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed.

The quality of primary care is directly related to the availability of resources. A shortage of physicians, limited access to specialized care, and a lack of mental health services can negatively impact the health of the community. Conversely, a well-staffed primary care system, the presence of innovative practices, and readily available mental health support can significantly improve health outcomes.

The assessment acknowledges that healthcare is a dynamic system. The overall health score is not static. It can change over time based on various factors, including population shifts, changes in healthcare policies, and advancements in medical technology. Regular reassessment is essential to track progress and identify emerging challenges.

Specific practices within the 25003 ZIP code will be evaluated based on publicly available information. This includes examining their websites, reading patient reviews, and researching their affiliations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize technology effectively, and offer a comprehensive range of services will be considered standout practices, contributing positively to the overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial factor in improving access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are considered to be more progressive and patient-friendly. This can be particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas like Alum Creek, where travel can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare.

Mental health resources are essential for the overall well-being of the community. The analysis will consider the availability of mental health professionals, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services. The presence of community-based mental health programs can also positively impact the overall health score.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of access to care. A high ratio can lead to longer wait times and reduced time spent with each patient. The analysis will attempt to determine the physician-to-patient ratio in the 25003 ZIP code, using publicly available data and estimates.

The overall health score is a reflection of the healthcare environment in Alum Creek. It provides a valuable assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, and can be used to inform decisions about healthcare policy and resource allocation. The score can be improved by increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding the availability of mental health services, and encouraging the adoption of telemedicine.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact health outcomes. These factors include income levels, education levels, and access to healthy food options. These factors can influence the health of the community and should be considered when assessing the overall health score.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Alum Creek, West Virginia. The overall health score will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The analysis will not provide a specific numerical score. Instead, it will provide a qualitative assessment of the healthcare environment in Alum Creek, identifying strengths and weaknesses and highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

The final analysis will provide a summary of the key findings, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The summary will also offer recommendations for improving the overall health score in Alum Creek.

For a more detailed and visually rich understanding of the healthcare landscape in Alum Creek, including geographic distribution of providers and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can enhance your understanding of the healthcare environment.