25503, Ashton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25503, Ashton, West Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25503 has some form of health insurance. 53.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.79 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 25503 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 356 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25503. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 58 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 926 health care providers accessible to residents in 25503, Ashton, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ashton, WV (ZIP Code 25503)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Ashton, West Virginia, specifically within the 25503 ZIP code, necessitates a comprehensive analysis. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and access to crucial resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the community's health status and identify areas for potential improvement. This analysis will also touch on the availability of primary care services within the broader Ashton area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. In rural areas like Ashton, this ratio often presents a significant challenge. Determining the exact ratio for this specific ZIP code requires accessing data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or similar sources. However, it's reasonable to anticipate a ratio that might be less favorable than the national average, potentially indicating a shortage of primary care physicians and specialists. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to access care, and potentially, delayed diagnoses or treatments. The density of the population within the area also impacts this, as a sparsely populated area can make it harder to sustain a robust medical practice.

Evaluating standout practices is crucial. Identifying healthcare providers known for excellent patient care, specialized services, and community engagement is essential. Researching local hospitals, clinics, and individual physician practices, including their patient reviews, accreditation status, and the range of services offered, is key. Are there any practices recognized for their commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, or geriatric services? Highlighting such practices provides a positive benchmark and showcases the available quality of care. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, or neurologists, within a reasonable distance also significantly impacts the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The utilization of telehealth services has increased significantly, especially in rural areas where access to in-person care can be limited. Assessing the availability of telemedicine options within the 25503 ZIP code and the broader Ashton area is essential. Do local healthcare providers offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online patient portals? The adoption of telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and provide convenient options for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments. The success of telemedicine often depends on internet access and digital literacy within the community.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within Ashton is essential. This includes assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and counseling services. Are there any community mental health centers or support groups available? The accessibility of mental health services, including affordability and availability of appointments, significantly impacts the overall health score. The stigma associated with mental health often presents a barrier to accessing care, so the presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives is also important.

Beyond the direct availability of medical professionals and resources, other factors contribute to the overall health score. These include the availability of pharmacies, access to healthy food options, the presence of recreational facilities, and community health initiatives. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, can also impact the score. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources can provide valuable insights into these areas.

Specificity is key. For example, instead of just stating that there are "some" pharmacies, it is better to identify the names and locations of the pharmacies within the 25503 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Similarly, instead of saying that there are "mental health services available," it is more informative to list the names of the mental health providers and the types of services they offer. The more specific the analysis, the more accurate and useful it will be.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population within the 25503 ZIP code. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity can significantly impact health outcomes. Understanding the specific needs of the population is essential for developing effective healthcare strategies. Are there any specific health disparities within the community? Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving the overall health score.

The assessment of primary care availability in Ashton should consider the various types of primary care providers, including family physicians, internal medicine physicians, and nurse practitioners. The analysis should also consider the geographical distribution of these providers and the ease of access for residents in different parts of Ashton. The availability of after-hours care and urgent care services also impacts the overall score.

The analysis should also consider the quality of care provided by the healthcare providers in Ashton. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction, the use of evidence-based practices, and the rates of preventable hospitalizations. Data from sources such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Ashton, WV (25503) is a multifaceted process. It requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and various other factors. This analysis highlights the importance of understanding the specific healthcare landscape within the community to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents have access to the quality care they need. The availability of primary care services in the broader Ashton area is a crucial aspect of this overall assessment.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ashton, including the location of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and help identify areas with limited access to care.