25506, Branchland, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25506, Branchland, West Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.35 percent of the residents in 25506 has some form of health insurance. 69.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.70 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 25506 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,260 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25506. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,066 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,121 health care providers accessible to residents in 25506, Branchland, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Branchland, WV (ZIP Code 25506)

Analyzing the overall health score for residents of Branchland, West Virginia, encompassing ZIP code 25506, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This information will paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in this rural community.

The foundation of any health score analysis is the availability of primary care physicians. Branchland, like many rural areas, likely faces challenges in this regard. Assessing the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas is crucial. This number needs to be compared to the population of Branchland to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors relative to the population, would significantly impact the overall health score negatively. Conversely, a higher ratio would suggest better access to care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. The national average often serves as a benchmark. If Branchland’s ratio falls significantly below this average, it indicates a potential barrier to accessing timely and routine medical care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, worsening of chronic conditions, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Researching the specific ratio for 25506 is essential to understanding the severity of this potential challenge. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and other relevant sources would be necessary for accurate calculation.

Identifying standout medical practices in the area is another key component. Are there any clinics or physician groups that consistently receive positive patient reviews? Do they offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or specialized services? Examining patient satisfaction surveys, online reviews, and the scope of services offered by local practices will help to identify those that excel in providing quality care. The presence of well-regarded practices can partially offset the negative impact of a low physician-to-patient ratio.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility, especially in rural communities. Does Branchland have primary care physicians who utilize telemedicine platforms? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The presence of telemedicine services, and the extent of their use, will positively influence the overall health score. Investigating the availability of these services and their utilization rates is essential.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. Access to mental health services is often limited in rural areas. Assessing the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and mental health support groups in Branchland is crucial. Are there any mental health clinics or programs operating within the ZIP code or nearby? Are these resources readily accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive to the needs of the community? A lack of mental health resources would significantly detract from the overall health score.

Further, investigating the availability of specialty care is important. While primary care is the foundation, access to specialists like cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists is also crucial for managing complex health conditions. If residents of Branchland have to travel long distances to see specialists, this can negatively impact their access to care and their overall health outcomes. Assessing the distance to the nearest specialist and the availability of transportation options is a crucial part of the analysis.

The quality of the local hospital, if one exists within a reasonable distance, is also a consideration. The hospital's accreditation status, the range of services it offers, and patient satisfaction scores are all important factors. The hospital's ability to handle emergencies and provide specialized care can significantly impact the health outcomes of the community.

Another factor to consider is the presence of community health initiatives. Are there any programs aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles, such as exercise classes, nutritional counseling, or disease prevention programs? The existence of these initiatives can positively influence the overall health of the community, even in the face of other challenges.

Finally, the demographics of Branchland should be considered. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the community can all influence the overall health score. Understanding the specific health needs of the population is crucial for developing effective healthcare strategies.

Based on these factors, an overall health score can be determined for Branchland, WV (25506). This score would reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, the availability of specialty care, the quality of the local hospital, the presence of community health initiatives, and the demographics of the population.

The final score would be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Branchland. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing and receiving quality healthcare, while a high score would suggest a more robust and accessible healthcare system. This analysis is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and for advocating for policies and programs that can enhance the health and well-being of the residents of Branchland.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Branchland and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, clinics, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and informative way to visualize healthcare data, making it easier to understand the accessibility and distribution of healthcare services in your community.