26705, Aurora, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26705, Aurora, West Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.04 percent of the residents in 26705 has some form of health insurance. 43.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.36 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 26705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 132 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26705. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 179 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 56 health care providers accessible to residents in 26705, Aurora, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Aurora, WV (ZIP Code 26705)

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 26705, encompassing the town of Aurora, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall physician-to-patient ratio. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately offering insights into the community's healthcare accessibility.

The foundation of any healthy community is access to primary care. In Aurora, the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the health of the population. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This involves calculating the number of residents per PCP. A high ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. The specific physician-to-patient ratio for 26705 needs to be determined through data collection from various sources, including the West Virginia Board of Medicine and local healthcare providers.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by the available PCPs is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the scope of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, preventative screenings), and the integration of technology into their practices. Practices that actively engage with their patients through patient portals, electronic health records, and comprehensive care coordination often provide a higher level of care. Researching the reputations of local practices and gathering patient testimonials can offer valuable insights into the quality of care.

Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Aurora. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within 26705 involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is a critical factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives. Investigating the infrastructure in the area and the willingness of local providers to embrace telemedicine technologies will provide a clearer picture of its impact.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and access to mental health resources is crucial. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, within the ZIP code or in nearby areas. This includes assessing the presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, where PCPs can screen for mental health issues and provide initial treatment or referrals, is another important factor.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Aurora, WV (26705) is not a static number; it is a complex assessment that reflects the interplay of several factors. A high score would indicate a strong physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality primary care practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A low score would point to challenges in one or more of these areas.

Specific examples of standout practices in Aurora, if they exist, should be highlighted. This could include practices that have achieved high patient satisfaction scores, implemented innovative care models, or demonstrated a commitment to community health initiatives. The identification of these practices can serve as models for other providers in the area and help improve the overall quality of care.

Conversely, areas needing improvement should be clearly identified. This might include a shortage of PCPs, limited access to mental health services, or a lack of telemedicine adoption. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts from healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations.

The analysis should also consider the demographic characteristics of the population within 26705. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases can influence healthcare needs and access. Understanding these demographics is essential for tailoring healthcare services to the specific needs of the community.

The implementation of telemedicine, while potentially beneficial, presents its own challenges. These include the need for digital literacy among both patients and providers, the availability of reliable internet access, and the security of patient data. Addressing these challenges is crucial for ensuring that telemedicine is effectively integrated into the healthcare system.

The presence of mental health resources should be thoroughly evaluated. The analysis should consider the availability of crisis intervention services, the accessibility of mental health professionals, and the availability of insurance coverage for mental health treatment. The stigma surrounding mental illness can also be a barrier to seeking care, and efforts to reduce this stigma are essential.

The 'Overall Health Score' is a dynamic assessment, and regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Ongoing monitoring of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability is essential for tracking progress and identifying areas needing attention.

The final score should not only reflect the current state of healthcare in Aurora but also provide recommendations for improvement. These recommendations might include strategies for recruiting and retaining PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, improving access to mental health resources, and promoting community health initiatives.

The analysis of the overall health score should be comprehensive, considering all aspects of healthcare delivery and access. By carefully examining the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, a clear picture of the health landscape in Aurora, WV (26705) emerges. This information can then be used to improve the health of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Aurora, WV (26705) and visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you identify areas with limited access to care, visualize physician locations, and analyze demographic data to gain a comprehensive understanding of the health needs of the community.