25140, Naoma, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25140, Naoma, West Virginia is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.03 percent of the residents in 25140 has some form of health insurance. 81.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.00 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 25140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 181 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25140. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 298 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47 health care providers accessible to residents in 25140, Naoma, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Naoma, WV (ZIP Code 25140)

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 25140, encompassing the community of Naoma, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the utilization of technology in healthcare delivery, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score," considering these crucial elements and offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The score, while subjective, attempts to synthesize available data and observations to provide a comprehensive picture.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the most critical factors influencing community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas like Naoma, this ratio often poses a significant challenge. Precise, up-to-the-minute data on the exact number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 25140 ZIP code is difficult to obtain without extensive, real-time data collection. However, publicly available resources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and state medical board databases, can offer estimates. These resources, combined with anecdotal evidence from local residents, can provide a preliminary understanding of the situation. The analysis suggests that the physician-to-patient ratio in Naoma is likely less favorable than the national average. This means that there are potentially fewer doctors to serve the population, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers.

The availability of primary care is also a critical component. This encompasses not only the number of physicians but also the types of practices available. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or clinics? Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer a range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and acute care? The presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or a Rural Health Clinic (RHC) would significantly improve the "Overall Health Score." These clinics often provide a safety net for underserved populations, offering comprehensive care regardless of a patient's ability to pay. Without such a facility, access to care can be further limited.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices within the 25140 ZIP code requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and evaluating its commitment to patient-centered care. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can offer patient reviews, although these reviews can be subjective and may not always reflect the overall quality of care. Examining the practice's accreditation status and whether it participates in quality improvement programs can provide additional insights.

Furthermore, the ability of a practice to effectively manage chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, is a crucial indicator of quality. This involves providing regular check-ups, offering patient education, and ensuring access to necessary medications. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals are often better equipped to manage patient data and improve communication. The "Overall Health Score" will be positively influenced by practices demonstrating a commitment to these best practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Advancements:**

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to specialists. The extent to which practices in Naoma have embraced telemedicine will significantly impact the "Overall Health Score." This includes the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote patient monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the practice's workflow. Practices that have successfully implemented telemedicine are better positioned to serve a wider patient population and improve health outcomes.

Beyond telemedicine, other technological advancements can also enhance healthcare delivery. The use of EHRs, as mentioned previously, is crucial for efficient data management and improved care coordination. Practices that utilize patient portals allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and schedule appointments online. The presence of these technologies will contribute positively to the "Overall Health Score."

**Mental Health Resources:**

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. Access to mental health services is often limited in rural areas, and this can have a significant impact on the community's well-being. This analysis must consider the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the 25140 ZIP code. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services will significantly improve the "Overall Health Score."

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is essential. This can involve providing on-site counseling services or establishing referral pathways to mental health specialists. The ability of primary care physicians to screen for mental health conditions and provide initial treatment can significantly improve access to care. The "Overall Health Score" will be positively influenced by the availability and accessibility of mental health resources.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Based on the available information, the "Overall Health Score" for Naoma, WV (ZIP code 25140) is likely below the national average. This is primarily due to the challenges associated with rural healthcare, including a potentially unfavorable physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialists, and the need for improved infrastructure. However, the score can be improved by increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding the adoption of telemedicine, and increasing the availability of mental health resources.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Naoma, WV, and visualize these complex factors, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize healthcare data, identify areas with limited access to care, and track the progress of healthcare initiatives. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize healthcare data in Naoma.