25085, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25085, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.05 percent of the residents in 25085 has some form of health insurance. 49.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.87 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 25085 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 155 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25085. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 106 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 63 health care providers accessible to residents in 25085, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia.

## Gauley Bridge, WV: An Overall Health Score Analysis (ZIP Code 25085)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 25085, encompassing Gauley Bridge, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach. It's not merely about counting doctors; it's about understanding the complex interplay of access, quality, and availability of essential healthcare services. This analysis will delve into key factors, providing an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for both the physician population and the accessibility of primary care within this specific geographical area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. In Gauley Bridge, a rural community, this ratio is likely to be a significant challenge. Rural areas often struggle to attract and retain physicians due to factors such as lower salaries, limited professional opportunities, and the challenges of providing care in underserved communities. A low physician-to-patient ratio translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. This scarcity necessitates creative solutions, such as leveraging technology and expanding the roles of existing healthcare professionals.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a healthy community. It provides preventative care, manages chronic conditions, and acts as the initial point of contact for medical needs. Assessing primary care access in Gauley Bridge involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), nurse practitioners (NPs), and physician assistants (PAs) actively practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. It also requires consideration of the types of practices available, such as family medicine, internal medicine, and general practice. Furthermore, examining the acceptance of new patients and the availability of after-hours care are crucial factors.

Standout practices, if any, in the area deserve special recognition. These practices may exhibit characteristics that contribute to a higher quality of care or improved patient outcomes. Perhaps they are known for their patient-centered approach, their commitment to preventative care, or their use of innovative technologies. Identification of such practices can provide valuable insights into best practices and potential models for improvement across the broader healthcare ecosystem.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in addressing the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas like Gauley Bridge. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and overcoming geographical barriers. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telehealth (e.g., primary care, mental health counseling), and the technological infrastructure in place to support these services. This includes examining the availability of reliable internet access, which is a significant hurdle in many rural communities.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a key indicator of community well-being. Analyzing mental health access in Gauley Bridge involves assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the availability of support groups. It's also essential to consider the integration of mental health services into primary care settings, which can improve access and reduce stigma.

The 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP code 25085 would likely be negatively impacted by the inherent challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio would likely be lower than the national average, reflecting the scarcity of physicians. Primary care availability would likely be limited, potentially leading to longer wait times and reduced access to preventative care. The adoption of telemedicine may be present but potentially hampered by limited internet access. Mental health resources might be scarce, further compounding the challenges faced by residents.

To improve the 'Overall Health Score', several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting and retaining physicians through incentives and support programs is paramount. Expanding the roles of NPs and PAs to provide primary care services can help bridge the gap. Investing in telemedicine infrastructure and promoting its adoption can enhance access to care. Increasing the availability of mental health services, including integrated care models, is essential. Community health initiatives focused on health education and preventative care can also contribute to improved health outcomes.

The 'Overall Health Score' for primary care availability in Gauley Bridge would be intrinsically linked to the physician supply and the presence of other healthcare providers. It would reflect the number of primary care providers, the types of services they offer, their acceptance of new patients, and their availability for after-hours care. The score would also be influenced by factors such as the availability of transportation to healthcare facilities and the presence of community health centers.

Ultimately, assessing the overall health of Gauley Bridge is a dynamic process. It requires ongoing monitoring of key indicators, a commitment to addressing the unique challenges of rural healthcare, and a willingness to embrace innovative solutions. The 'Overall Health Score' is not a static number; it is a reflection of the community's efforts to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

To visualize and understand the healthcare landscape in Gauley Bridge and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the data using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician distribution, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in the region.