25304, Charleston, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25304, Charleston, West Virginia is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.48 percent of the residents in 25304 has some form of health insurance. 37.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.23 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 25304 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,099 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25304. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,831 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,662 health care providers accessible to residents in 25304, Charleston, West Virginia.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 25304 and Primary Care Availability in Charleston**

Assessing the overall health score for a specific ZIP code and city requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing not only the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care, access to specialists, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 25304 in Charleston, West Virginia, examining the availability of primary care physicians and other critical health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. In 25304, a precise determination necessitates accessing up-to-date data from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau. However, based on general trends and national averages, Charleston, and by extension 25304, likely experiences a physician shortage compared to more affluent areas. Rural areas, like parts of West Virginia, often struggle to attract and retain healthcare professionals. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for specialized care, and a heavier workload for existing physicians. The impact can be particularly acute for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income families, and those with chronic health conditions.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. PCPs serve as the gatekeepers of the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic illnesses, and coordinating referrals to specialists. Within 25304, the concentration of PCPs is a crucial factor. Are there enough PCPs to meet the needs of the population? Are these physicians accepting new patients? Are they accessible to all residents, regardless of their insurance status or socioeconomic background? These are critical questions that directly influence the overall health score.

Standout practices within the area can significantly improve the overall health score. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovation, and community engagement. This could include practices that have received recognition for quality metrics, patient satisfaction, or innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Identifying these practices requires examining patient reviews, analyzing quality data from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), and assessing the integration of technology to improve patient care. Some practices might excel in specific areas, such as diabetes management, geriatric care, or pediatric services.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. In 25304, the extent to which physicians utilize telemedicine can impact access to care. Does the area have access to telehealth appointments for routine check-ups, medication management, and mental health consultations? The availability of reliable internet access and the digital literacy of the patient population also play a significant role in the success of telemedicine initiatives. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and provide more convenient healthcare options.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent and often co-occur with physical health conditions. The availability of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial. Does 25304 have access to mental health services? Are there enough providers to meet the demand? Are these services affordable and accessible to all residents? The presence of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and substance abuse treatment programs also contributes to the overall health score.

Assessing the quality of care requires looking beyond just the number of physicians. It involves examining patient outcomes, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and patient satisfaction. Are patients receiving timely and appropriate care? Are they satisfied with their interactions with their healthcare providers? Are there any disparities in care based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status? Quality metrics, such as hospital readmission rates, preventative care utilization rates, and chronic disease management outcomes, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care being delivered.

The integration of technology is also a factor. Electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and reduce medical errors. Patient portals allow patients to access their medical information, communicate with their providers, and schedule appointments. The use of these technologies can improve efficiency, enhance patient engagement, and ultimately improve health outcomes.

The overall health score for 25304 and Charleston can be influenced by several external factors. These include the socioeconomic characteristics of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the availability of community resources. Areas with higher rates of poverty, unemployment, and limited access to healthy food options often have poorer health outcomes. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, can also impact the overall health score. The availability of community resources, such as food banks, social services, and recreational facilities, can also play a role in promoting overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, determining the overall health score for 25304 and Charleston requires a comprehensive assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, quality of care, and the impact of external factors. The health score is dynamic and changes with the availability of resources and the quality of care.

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