25193, Sylvester, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25193, Sylvester, West Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.26 percent of the residents in 25193 has some form of health insurance. 54.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.65 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 25193 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 301 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25193. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 86 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 100 health care providers accessible to residents in 25193, Sylvester, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sylvester, WV (ZIP Code 25193)

This analysis provides an ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment for the Sylvester, West Virginia area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources within the specified ZIP code. This assessment aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for residents of Sylvester.

The primary challenge in evaluating healthcare access in a rural area like Sylvester is often the limited availability of resources. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced physician availability, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Sylvester requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, given the general trends in rural healthcare, it is reasonable to anticipate a ratio that is less favorable than the national average. This scarcity of providers is a significant factor in determining the overall health score.

The presence of standout medical practices can significantly improve the health score. These practices are defined by their commitment to patient care, their use of advanced medical technologies, and their ability to offer a broad range of services. Identifying such practices requires careful research, including analyzing online reviews, checking accreditation status, and assessing the range of services offered. The existence of a well-regarded primary care clinic, offering comprehensive services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and basic diagnostic capabilities, would significantly boost the overall health score. The availability of specialist referrals within the local area or nearby communities is also a crucial factor.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine, which involves the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, can help overcome geographical barriers. It allows patients in Sylvester to access specialists, receive consultations, and even monitor their health conditions without traveling long distances. The degree of telemedicine adoption by local primary care providers, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, is an important factor in the overall health score. A high level of telemedicine adoption can mitigate some of the challenges associated with a low physician-to-patient ratio.

Mental health resources are another essential component of a strong healthcare system. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial for addressing the mental health needs of the Sylvester population. The overall health score is significantly impacted by the presence of these resources. The accessibility of mental health services can be evaluated by considering the number of mental health providers, the availability of crisis intervention services, and the presence of support groups. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also a key factor.

The overall health score for Sylvester, WV (ZIP Code 25193) is likely to be affected by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute to the score. A low physician-to-patient ratio could be partially offset by a high level of telemedicine adoption and the presence of well-regarded practices. The availability of mental health resources is a critical factor, as it addresses a fundamental component of overall well-being.

To improve the overall health score, Sylvester needs to focus on several key areas. Recruiting and retaining physicians is a top priority. This could involve offering incentives to attract medical professionals to the area. Expanding telemedicine capabilities is another critical step. This includes investing in the necessary technology and training healthcare providers to use it effectively. Enhancing the availability of mental health resources is also essential. This could involve partnering with mental health organizations, establishing mental health clinics, and integrating mental health services into primary care practices.

The assessment of the overall health score for Sylvester is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of all the factors discussed above. The final score is a reflection of the overall healthcare environment. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Sylvester.

The health score is not static; it can change over time. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The community, local healthcare providers, and government agencies all have a role to play in improving the health score and ensuring that residents of Sylvester have access to quality healthcare.