25524, Harts, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25524, Harts, West Virginia is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.15 percent of the residents in 25524 has some form of health insurance. 67.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.61 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 25524 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 721 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25524. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 398 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 188 health care providers accessible to residents in 25524, Harts, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25524 & Harts Primary Care

Analyzing the overall health score for the residents of ZIP code 25524, encompassing the town of Harts, requires a multifaceted assessment. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographical area.

The foundation of any health score assessment rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Harts, a rural community, this is often a significant challenge. The geographic isolation and potential for limited specialist access can heavily impact the overall health score. The first critical factor to evaluate is the physician-to-patient ratio. National averages often provide a benchmark, but the reality in rural areas frequently deviates significantly. We need to determine the number of practicing PCPs actively serving the 25524 ZIP code, and then calculate the ratio based on the total population. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would negatively affect the health score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and reputation of the existing primary care practices are vital. Are there any standout practices known for their patient-centered care, specialized services, or commitment to preventative medicine? Identifying practices with positive patient reviews, accreditations, or awards would contribute positively to the overall health score. Conversely, practices with documented issues or a history of negative outcomes would detract from the score. This requires a deep dive into patient feedback, peer reviews, and publicly available data on practice performance.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. In a geographically challenged area like Harts, telemedicine offers a potential solution to access limitations. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. The extent to which PCPs in 25524 have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services offered remotely, directly influences the overall health score. Practices that have fully integrated telemedicine into their workflow would receive a higher score than those with limited or no telemedicine offerings.

Mental health resources are an increasingly important component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is critical. The presence of these resources within the 25524 ZIP code, or readily accessible within a reasonable travel distance, is a significant factor. Additionally, the availability of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and community outreach programs would positively impact the health score. A lack of mental health resources would severely compromise the overall health score, particularly in a rural setting where access to care is already limited.

Specific practices within the 25524 area, if any, need to be assessed. For example, the presence of a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) would positively impact the score. FQHCs often provide comprehensive, affordable care to underserved populations. The services offered by these practices, including primary care, behavioral health, and dental care, are crucial for a comprehensive health score. The quality of care provided by these specific practices, as determined by patient satisfaction, outcomes, and adherence to best practices, would also influence the overall health score.

The overall health score is also affected by the demographics of the population. The age distribution, prevalence of chronic diseases, and socioeconomic factors all play a role. A population with a higher percentage of elderly residents, or a higher prevalence of conditions like diabetes or heart disease, would require more robust healthcare services. The availability of specialized care for these conditions, and the degree to which the community supports healthy lifestyles, would be reflected in the health score.

Transportation challenges, often a significant barrier in rural areas, also factor into the equation. The availability of public transportation, or the existence of patient transportation programs, can influence access to care. Patients who are unable to travel easily to doctor’s appointments are less likely to receive timely medical attention, which negatively impacts the overall health score.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is another consideration. Electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and online appointment scheduling systems can streamline care and improve patient engagement. The adoption of these technologies by local practices can contribute to a higher health score. Practices that embrace technology to improve efficiency and patient communication would receive a more favorable assessment.

In conclusion, determining the overall health score for the residents of ZIP code 25524, encompassing Harts, necessitates a thorough examination of several key factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of existing primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the impact of socioeconomic factors all contribute to the final assessment. The presence of standout practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily accessible mental health services would contribute positively to the score. Conversely, a low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a lack of mental health resources would negatively impact the overall health score. This detailed analysis allows for a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harts and can inform strategies to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 25524, including the location of practices, availability of resources, and demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. They provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the health disparities and opportunities within the community.