25608, Baisden, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25608, Baisden, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.95 percent of the residents in 25608 has some form of health insurance. 75.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.40 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 25608 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 63 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25608. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 259 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 186 health care providers accessible to residents in 25608, Baisden, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Baisden, WV (ZIP Code 25608)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 25608, encompassing the community of Baisden, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers 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. Based on available data and general trends within rural Appalachian communities, a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ can be estimated, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system within this specific area.

One of the primary determinants of a community's health is the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Baisden, like many rural areas, the availability of doctors is likely a significant challenge. The physician-to-patient ratio, a crucial metric, is often unfavorable in these regions. This ratio represents the number of residents served by each physician. A higher ratio indicates a greater demand on each doctor, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with patients, and overall strain on the healthcare system. Without specific data for 25608, we can reasonably infer that the ratio is likely higher than the national average, which contributes to a lower ‘Overall Health Score’.

The presence of standout medical practices, those known for providing exceptional care, innovative approaches, or specialized services, can positively impact a community's health score. However, in a small, rural community like Baisden, the availability of such practices might be limited. The lack of a diverse range of medical specialists and advanced treatment options is a common characteristic of rural healthcare settings. The absence of specialized practices, or the need to travel significant distances for specialized care, would negatively influence the overall health score for the area.

Telemedicine adoption, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, is increasingly important, especially in areas with limited access to physical healthcare facilities. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with doctors, receive diagnoses, and manage chronic conditions without the need for extensive travel. The extent of telemedicine adoption within Baisden’s healthcare infrastructure can significantly impact the overall health score. Factors to consider include the availability of reliable internet access, the willingness of local physicians to embrace telemedicine, and the accessibility of telehealth services for patients. A higher rate of telemedicine adoption would contribute positively to the health score.

Mental health resources are another critical aspect of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for addressing the mental health needs of the community. Rural areas often face shortages of mental health providers, leading to limited access to care and potential delays in treatment. The prevalence of mental health issues, coupled with the scarcity of resources, can significantly impact the overall health score. The existence of support groups, counseling services, and mental health awareness programs would contribute positively to the score.

Considering these factors, it is possible to estimate an ‘Overall Health Score’ for Baisden, WV (25608). Due to the likely challenges in physician availability, the potential lack of specialized practices, and the possible scarcity of mental health resources, the estimated score would likely be below the national average. The degree to which telemedicine is embraced and the presence of any innovative healthcare initiatives could potentially mitigate some of these negative factors.

To improve the health score, several strategies could be implemented. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is paramount. Incentives, such as loan repayment programs or community support, could attract doctors to the area. Expanding telemedicine capabilities, including ensuring reliable internet access and training physicians and patients on its use, could increase access to care. Investing in mental health services, including establishing clinics, recruiting mental health professionals, and promoting mental health awareness, is crucial. Supporting community health initiatives, such as wellness programs and health education, could also contribute to a healthier community.

In conclusion, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for Baisden, WV (25608) is likely impacted by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare settings. While specific data is needed for a precise score, the analysis highlights the importance of primary care access, specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Addressing these areas is essential to improve the health and well-being of the community.

For a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Baisden and other areas, including mapping physician locations, identifying healthcare facilities, and visualizing health-related data, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, which can be invaluable for understanding healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.