The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 26141, Creston, West Virginia is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 89.11 percent of the residents in 26141 has some form of health insurance. 56.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.67 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 26141 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26141. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 101 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 79 health care providers accessible to residents in 26141, Creston, West Virginia.
Health Scores in 26141, Creston, West Virginia
Arthritis Score | 14 |
---|---|
People Score | 41 |
Provider Score | 22 |
Hospital Score | 52 |
Travel Score | 17 |
26141 | Creston | West Virginia | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Arthritis Score Analysis: Creston, WV (ZIP Code 26141)
This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services, focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis, within the Creston, West Virginia (ZIP code 26141) area. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Arthritis Score" perspective. The evaluation is based on publicly available data, industry reports, and general healthcare trends.
Creston, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: limited access to specialized medical care and a potentially aging population, factors that can significantly impact arthritis management. The "Arthritis Score" implicitly reflects the ease with which residents can access comprehensive care, including early diagnosis, effective treatment, and ongoing support.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**
The physician-to-patient ratio in 26141 is a critical starting point. Rural areas frequently experience shortages, and this directly affects access to primary care physicians (PCPs). A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and difficulty establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care provider. These factors are detrimental to effective arthritis management, which often requires regular monitoring, medication adjustments, and patient education. The current ratio must be ascertained.
**Practice Characteristics and Standout Practices:**
Within the area, the characteristics of existing primary care practices are key. Are there solo practitioners, or are practices part of larger networks? Larger networks may offer greater resources, including access to specialists, physical therapy, and diagnostic imaging, all essential for arthritis care. The availability of on-site X-ray capabilities, for instance, can expedite diagnosis and treatment.
Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors beyond basic services. Do practices have a dedicated focus on chronic disease management? Do they employ nurses or medical assistants with specialized training in arthritis care? Are they actively involved in patient education programs, providing information on lifestyle modifications, exercise, and self-management techniques? The presence of these elements elevates the "Arthritis Score."
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**
Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can be a game-changer in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with their PCPs or specialists without traveling long distances. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic pain associated with arthritis.
Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining whether local practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals for communication and prescription refills. The accessibility of these services directly impacts the "Arthritis Score," as they enhance convenience and improve the continuity of care.
**Mental Health Resources: An Integrated Approach:**
The connection between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive arthritis care.
The "Arthritis Score" considers whether primary care practices integrate mental health services. This can include on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or referral pathways to behavioral health specialists. The ability to address both physical and psychological needs is essential for improving patient outcomes and overall quality of life.
**Specific Considerations for 26141:**
Given the rural nature of Creston, specific considerations are paramount. The availability of transportation for patients to access care is a significant factor. Limited public transportation or long distances to reach medical facilities can exacerbate access issues. Community outreach programs, such as mobile health clinics or partnerships with local organizations, can help address these challenges and improve the "Arthritis Score."
**The "Arthritis Score" Perspective:**
The overall "Arthritis Score" for 26141 reflects the aggregate of these factors. A high score indicates good access to primary care, robust practice characteristics, effective telemedicine implementation, and integrated mental health resources. A low score suggests significant challenges in accessing comprehensive arthritis care. The score is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape.
**Conclusion:**
Managing arthritis effectively requires a multifaceted approach, and the availability of quality primary care is foundational. Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources provides a comprehensive perspective on the healthcare landscape in Creston, WV (26141). This analysis offers a framework for assessing the "Arthritis Score" and identifying areas for improvement.
**Call to Action:**
For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of 26141 and surrounding areas, including a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can enhance understanding of healthcare access and inform decision-making.
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