25920, Slab Fork, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25920, Slab Fork, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25920 has some form of health insurance. 53.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.63 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 25920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 143 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25920. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 61 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 177 health care providers accessible to residents in 25920, Slab Fork, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Slab Fork, WV (ZIP Code 25920)

Assessing the overall health landscape of Slab Fork, West Virginia, specifically within the 25920 ZIP code, requires a comprehensive evaluation. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. These factors contribute to an overall health score, which, while not a single numerical value, paints a picture of the community's access to and quality of healthcare.

Slab Fork, a small community nestled in the Appalachian region, faces unique challenges. Rural areas often experience difficulties in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see a doctor, and a general feeling of healthcare inaccessibility.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. In areas with a high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, access to care is inherently limited. While precise figures require data analysis from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or the West Virginia Board of Medicine, it's highly probable that 25920 exhibits a less favorable ratio compared to urban centers. This scarcity necessitates a closer examination of how existing resources are utilized and how the community addresses the shortfall.

Identifying standout practices within the 25920 ZIP code is essential. These practices, if any, serve as models of effective care delivery in a challenging environment. They might demonstrate innovative approaches to patient care, such as extended hours, community outreach programs, or a focus on chronic disease management. Evaluating these practices would involve assessing patient satisfaction, the quality of care provided, and the practice's ability to serve a diverse population.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving healthcare access in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to specialists who may not be locally available. The level of telemedicine adoption within 25920, encompassing both the availability of telehealth services and patient utilization, significantly impacts the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to score higher in this area.

Mental health resources are another crucial component of overall health. The prevalence of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, is a significant concern in many rural communities. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is a key indicator. Furthermore, the presence of support groups, mental health awareness programs, and partnerships with local organizations to address mental health needs all contribute to a more positive overall health score.

The assessment of mental health resources must also consider the stigma associated with seeking mental health care, which can be particularly prevalent in rural areas. Programs aimed at reducing stigma, promoting mental health awareness, and providing accessible mental health services are vital for improving the overall health of the community.

The geographical isolation of Slab Fork can exacerbate healthcare challenges. Patients may face difficulties in accessing specialists or specialized care due to limited transportation options and long travel distances. The availability of emergency medical services, including ambulance services and the proximity to hospitals, is also a critical factor in assessing the overall health score.

The socioeconomic factors of the community also play a significant role. Poverty, unemployment, and limited access to healthy food can negatively impact health outcomes. Healthcare providers in the 25920 ZIP code must be aware of these social determinants of health and address them through community outreach programs, partnerships with social service agencies, and patient education initiatives.

The quality of the healthcare infrastructure is also important. This includes the availability of modern medical equipment, electronic health records, and efficient administrative processes. Practices that invest in technology and strive for operational efficiency are better positioned to provide high-quality care and improve patient outcomes.

The overall health score for Slab Fork, WV (25920) is likely to be negatively impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, and the limited access to mental health resources will likely contribute to a lower score. However, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of innovative practices, and the community's efforts to address social determinants of health can positively influence the score.

Further research is needed to quantify the specific aspects of the overall health score. This would involve gathering data from various sources, including healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations. A detailed analysis would provide a more accurate and comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Slab Fork.

Finally, it's important to note that the overall health score is not static. It can change over time as healthcare providers adapt to the evolving needs of the community and as new resources become available. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize and understand the healthcare landscape in 25920 and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points, offering a visual representation of the community's healthcare access.