25868, Lookout, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25868, Lookout, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.21 percent of the residents in 25868 has some form of health insurance. 35.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.36 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 25868 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 87 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25868. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 48 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 345 health care providers accessible to residents in 25868, Lookout, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Lookout, WV (ZIP Code 25868)

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of Lookout, West Virginia, focusing on primary care availability within the 25868 ZIP code. We'll evaluate the accessibility, quality, and breadth of healthcare services, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

Lookout, nestled in the Appalachian region, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. Rural communities often grapple with limited access to medical professionals, geographical barriers, and socioeconomic factors that impact overall health outcomes. Understanding these intricacies is crucial for a realistic evaluation.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

One of the most significant indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas like Lookout, this ratio often lags behind national averages. A low ratio suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians, leading to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potentially delayed or neglected care. Data analysis is needed to pinpoint the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 25868 ZIP code. This would involve identifying the number of active primary care physicians practicing in the area and comparing it to the estimated population. Public health resources can provide this data.

The geographical layout of Lookout, with its mountainous terrain and dispersed population, further complicates access. Patients may face significant travel times to reach the nearest primary care provider, especially for those without reliable transportation. This physical barrier can deter individuals from seeking preventative care and managing chronic conditions effectively.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

While access is a primary concern, the quality of care provided by existing practices is equally important. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors, including patient reviews, accreditation status, the range of services offered, and the use of technology.

Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating patient feedback and offering personalized treatment plans, should be considered high-performing. Accreditation by reputable organizations like the Joint Commission or the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) signifies adherence to established quality standards. The range of services offered, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized treatments, also contributes to a practice's overall score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Integration:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas. Its adoption rate among primary care providers in 25868 is a crucial factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians via video conferencing, receive remote monitoring, and access specialist consultations without traveling long distances.

The presence of telemedicine capabilities, the types of services offered through telemedicine, and the ease of use for both patients and providers all contribute to the evaluation. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their workflow are likely to score higher in this area.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical aspect of the health score. Rural communities often face a shortage of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists.

The presence of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and psychiatric medication management, is essential. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator. This integration allows primary care physicians to screen patients for mental health issues and provide initial support or referrals to specialized services.

**Specific Considerations for Lookout:**

Given the unique challenges of Lookout, specific considerations must be taken into account. The socioeconomic factors of the area, including poverty rates and access to insurance, can significantly impact health outcomes. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, and the availability of resources to manage these conditions, also influence the overall health score.

The presence of community health initiatives, such as health education programs, support groups, and outreach services, can play a vital role in improving health outcomes. These initiatives can address specific health needs within the community and provide support to vulnerable populations.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, an 'Overall Health Score' can be assigned to the primary care landscape in Lookout, WV. This score should reflect the accessibility, quality, and breadth of healthcare services available to residents. The score should be based on a comprehensive analysis of the physician-to-patient ratio, the performance of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The score should be interpreted with caution, recognizing that it is a snapshot of a complex and evolving situation. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape in Lookout, WV, presents both challenges and opportunities. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting telemedicine adoption, enhancing mental health resources, and supporting community health initiatives are crucial steps toward improving the overall health of the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Lookout, WV, and gain a deeper understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations that allow you to explore data related to healthcare access, physician locations, and other relevant factors.