25244, Gay, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25244, Gay, West Virginia is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 25244 has some form of health insurance. 51.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.31 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 25244 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 128 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25244. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 61 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 211 health care providers accessible to residents in 25244, Gay, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Gay, WV (ZIP Code 25244)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Gay, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25244) requires a multifaceted approach. This assessment goes beyond simple metrics, aiming to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access, quality, and resource availability for residents. The analysis will consider factors such as physician density, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, ultimately culminating in an ‘Overall Health Score’ ranking.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In a rural area like Gay, this is particularly critical. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. The national average serves as a useful benchmark, and any deviation from this average will significantly impact the health score. Research into the specific number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code is crucial. This data, coupled with the population of Gay, will determine the physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond simple numbers, the scope of services offered by primary care practices is also vital. Do practices offer a full range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and acute illness treatment? The availability of on-site laboratory services, diagnostic imaging, and specialized clinics (e.g., diabetes education) enhances the accessibility and comprehensiveness of care. Furthermore, the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is crucial for ensuring access for all residents, regardless of their financial situation. The presence of a hospital or urgent care facility within a reasonable driving distance is also a significant factor.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is another important aspect. This requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and any awards or recognition received. Are there practices known for their patient-centered approach, their commitment to quality, or their innovative use of technology? Practices that actively engage in community outreach and health education initiatives also contribute positively to the overall health score. Public health data, such as immunization rates and chronic disease prevalence, can also indicate the effectiveness of local healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and online access to medical records. The availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of use for patients are all key considerations. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are likely to receive a higher score, as they are demonstrating a commitment to improving access and convenience.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent, and access to timely and effective care is essential. This includes the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are there mental health clinics or practices within the ZIP code? Does the local healthcare system have partnerships with mental health providers? The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and substance abuse treatment programs also contribute to a positive score. The stigma surrounding mental health can be a barrier to care, so practices that actively promote mental health awareness and destigmatization efforts will be viewed favorably.

A thorough analysis must also consider the social determinants of health. These are the factors outside of the healthcare system that influence a person's health outcomes. This includes factors such as socioeconomic status, education level, access to healthy food, and safe housing. While the healthcare system cannot directly control these factors, it can play a role in addressing them through partnerships with community organizations and by providing resources and referrals to address social needs.

Finally, the ‘Overall Health Score’ will be a composite measure, weighting the various factors discussed above. The weight assigned to each factor will reflect its relative importance in determining the overall health and well-being of the community. A higher score will indicate a healthier community, with greater access to quality healthcare services and resources. A lower score will indicate areas for improvement, highlighting the need for interventions and investments to address healthcare disparities.

This analysis will be dynamic. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, policies, and practices emerging regularly. Therefore, the ‘Overall Health Score’ should be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect these changes. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for ensuring that the healthcare system is meeting the needs of the community and improving the health outcomes of its residents.

This analysis provides a framework for assessing the healthcare landscape in Gay, WV (ZIP Code 25244). The ‘Overall Health Score’ will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately, improve the health and well-being of the community.

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