25904, Pax, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25904, Pax, West Virginia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.15 percent of the residents in 25904 has some form of health insurance. 64.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.26 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 25904 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 80 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25904. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 113 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 375 health care providers accessible to residents in 25904, Pax, West Virginia.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 25904 and Primary Care Availability in Pax**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 25904, which encompasses the town of Pax, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. An “Overall Health Score” assessment necessitates a deep dive into several key areas, including physician availability, the quality of primary care services, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the accessibility of mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is the availability of qualified physicians. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this ratio for ZIP code 25904 involves identifying the number of practicing physicians within the area, specifically primary care physicians (PCPs), and comparing that number to the population of Pax. A low ratio indicates a potential shortage of doctors, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, combined with resources like the American Medical Association, can provide the necessary figures to calculate this ratio. However, the precise ratio can fluctuate due to physician turnover and population shifts.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care services is paramount. This involves evaluating the types of services offered by local practices. Do the practices offer comprehensive care, including preventive screenings, chronic disease management, and acute care? Do they accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, to ensure accessibility for all residents? Are the practices patient-centered, with a focus on building strong doctor-patient relationships? Reviews from patients, ratings from healthcare accreditation organizations, and the availability of extended hours can all provide insights into the quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 25904 requires careful research. This might involve looking for practices that have received awards or recognition for their quality of care, patient satisfaction, or innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Examining the educational backgrounds and specializations of the physicians in the area is also important. Are there specialists available locally, or do patients need to travel to other cities for specialized care? The presence of board-certified physicians and specialists can significantly enhance the overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial factor in modern healthcare. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Pax, where geographic barriers can limit access to specialists and routine care. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which local practices offer telehealth services, the types of services available through telemedicine (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the availability of the necessary technology for patients to access these services. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve their overall health score by providing more convenient and accessible care.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services in ZIP code 25904 involves identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors available locally. Are there mental health clinics or community mental health centers within the area? Are there support groups or other resources available for individuals struggling with mental health challenges? The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also important, as it can improve early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

The overall health score for ZIP code 25904 is a composite of these various factors. A high score would indicate a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality primary care services, a strong adoption of telemedicine, and robust mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care and a need for improvement in various areas. The score is not static; it can change over time due to factors such as population shifts, physician recruitment, and advancements in healthcare technology.

The challenges of healthcare access in rural areas are well-documented. Factors such as physician shortages, limited transportation options, and socioeconomic disparities can all contribute to health disparities. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. Strategies to improve healthcare access might include recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding telemedicine services, improving transportation options, and providing financial assistance to patients.

Evaluating the health of a community is an ongoing process. Regular assessments, data analysis, and community feedback are essential to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. The overall health score is a valuable tool for monitoring progress and guiding efforts to improve the health and well-being of the community.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 25904 and other areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points.