25812, Ansted, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25812, Ansted, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.57 percent of the residents in 25812 has some form of health insurance. 56.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.95 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 25812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 263 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25812. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 325 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 252 health care providers accessible to residents in 25812, Ansted, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ansted, WV (ZIP Code 25812)

Ansted, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique challenge when assessing its overall health landscape. Evaluating the health of a community requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the presence of healthcare providers but also their accessibility, the availability of specialized services, and the overall health behaviors of the population. This analysis will delve into the health resources within and serving ZIP code 25812, focusing on primary care availability and offering an overall health score assessment.

The foundation of any healthy community is access to primary care. In Ansted, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to delayed care, overburdened physicians, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. While specific, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to pinpoint without real-time data, publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer estimates. These estimates, coupled with local insights, provide a baseline understanding of the PCP landscape. Any analysis should also consider the age and health status of the population in 25812, as a higher proportion of elderly or individuals with chronic conditions will place a greater demand on primary care services.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are crucial. Does the community have a robust network of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians? Are these practices accepting new patients? Are they equipped to handle the specific health needs of the Ansted population? Factors like insurance acceptance (including Medicaid and Medicare), extended hours, and weekend availability significantly impact access. Furthermore, the physical location of these practices is vital. Are they centrally located and easily accessible by public transportation, or are they geographically dispersed, potentially creating barriers for those without personal vehicles?

Identifying standout practices within the Ansted area requires a more granular investigation. This involves evaluating patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, minor procedures), and understanding the practice’s commitment to patient education and community outreach. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, provide culturally sensitive care, and utilize technology to improve patient communication are often considered high-performing. It is also important to consider the stability of these practices. High physician turnover can disrupt continuity of care, which can negatively impact patient health outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Ansted. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists who may not be physically present in the area. The availability of telehealth services, the ease of use of these platforms, and the willingness of patients and providers to embrace this technology are all critical factors. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to be viewed favorably.

Mental health resources are another crucial component of overall health. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the emotional and psychological well-being of the community. The availability of these resources in Ansted, including the presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups, is a key indicator of community health. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is particularly beneficial, as it allows for early identification and treatment of mental health conditions. The stigma surrounding mental health is a significant barrier to care, so any efforts to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma are crucial.

The overall health score for Ansted, WV (ZIP code 25812) is complex. It is not simply a matter of counting doctors. It is an assessment of the entire healthcare ecosystem, from the number of physicians to the quality of care provided, the accessibility of services, and the availability of specialized care. A low physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited access to specialists and mental health resources, would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a strong network of primary care providers, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health services would contribute to a higher score. The overall health score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Ansted.

The overall health score is not a static number. It should be used to inform policy decisions, guide resource allocation, and track progress over time. A comprehensive understanding of the health landscape in Ansted is essential for creating a healthier community. This involves ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This is an area that requires constant attention and improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Ansted and the surrounding areas, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the overall health score, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to see the distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access, and analyze demographic data to gain valuable insights into the health needs of the community.