25571, West Hamlin, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25571, West Hamlin, West Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.49 percent of the residents in 25571 has some form of health insurance. 47.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.89 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 25571 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 826 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25571. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 290 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,251 health care providers accessible to residents in 25571, West Hamlin, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: West Hamlin, WV (ZIP Code 25571)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in West Hamlin, West Virginia (ZIP code 25571) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. This analysis delves into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and identifies standout practices to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment. The limitations of publicly available data, particularly in rural areas, necessitate a cautious interpretation, acknowledging the potential for gaps in information.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. This includes general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family medicine physicians. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio, which reflects the number of residents served by each PCP. A low ratio, indicating a high number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised healthcare access.

In West Hamlin, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a significant concern. Rural areas often face a shortage of healthcare professionals, exacerbated by factors such as limited economic opportunities, geographic isolation, and a lack of specialized medical facilities. While precise figures are difficult to ascertain without direct access to local healthcare provider databases, it is highly probable that the ratio in 25571 is higher than the national average, potentially placing a strain on existing primary care resources. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, preventative care neglect, and increased reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions.

Identifying standout practices within the community is crucial. These practices often serve as models for quality care and patient-centered service. Factors to consider include the practice's commitment to patient education, its use of technology to enhance patient care, and its ability to coordinate care with specialists and other healthcare providers. Assessing patient satisfaction through online reviews and surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and actively engage with the community are more likely to be considered standout performers.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key aspect of the health landscape. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas where access to physical healthcare facilities is limited. It can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The extent of telemedicine adoption in 25571 is likely influenced by factors such as internet connectivity, the availability of telemedicine-enabled devices, and the willingness of both physicians and patients to embrace this technology.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services involves evaluating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the community or accessible within a reasonable distance. The availability of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and substance abuse treatment programs is also crucial. Rural areas often face challenges in providing adequate mental health services, including a shortage of mental health professionals, stigma associated with mental illness, and limited access to transportation.

In West Hamlin, the availability of mental health resources is likely a significant concern. The area's socio-economic factors, combined with the challenges of rural healthcare, may contribute to a higher prevalence of mental health issues. Addressing this requires a multi-pronged approach, including increasing the number of mental health professionals, promoting mental health awareness, and improving access to affordable and accessible mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential to improve the mental health landscape.

The 'Overall Health Score' for West Hamlin, WV (25571) is likely to be negatively impacted by the probable challenges in the physician-to-patient ratio, the limited availability of mental health resources, and the potential for lower rates of telemedicine adoption. While identifying specific standout practices requires more in-depth research, the community's health score could be improved through initiatives to attract and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine capabilities, and increase access to mental health services.

The health landscape in West Hamlin is shaped by its rural context. The community's ability to address these challenges will directly impact its overall health and well-being. Continuous monitoring, data collection, and community engagement are essential for identifying areas for improvement and implementing effective solutions.