26253, Beverly, West Virginia Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 26253, Beverly, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.35 percent of the residents in 26253 has some form of health insurance. 46.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.57 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 26253 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 946 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26253. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 608 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 389 health care providers accessible to residents in 26253, Beverly, West Virginia.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26253 and Primary Care in Beverly, WV

This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment of primary care physician (PCP) availability and related resources within ZIP code 26253, focusing specifically on the town of Beverly, West Virginia. The "Arthritis Score" is a composite measure, weighing factors relevant to patients with arthritis, including physician access, telemedicine capabilities, and integration with mental health services. This score is not a formal, scientifically validated metric, but rather a qualitative evaluation based on available data and industry best practices.

The foundation of any good healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians. In Beverly, and by extension ZIP code 26253, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical component of the Arthritis Score. Precise figures are difficult to obtain publicly, but the rural nature of the area suggests a potential shortage. The scarcity of PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and delayed diagnoses, all of which can negatively impact the management of chronic conditions like arthritis. This is especially true for individuals who require frequent check-ups and medication adjustments.

The Arthritis Score also considers the presence of standout practices. While specific practice names are not publicly available for this analysis, it is crucial to investigate whether practices within the area are actively working to improve arthritis care. This includes factors like whether the practice has physicians with specific training or experience in rheumatology, whether they have a dedicated care coordinator for patients with chronic conditions, and whether they have a strong relationship with local specialists. Such factors would significantly boost the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element of the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine offers a vital pathway to healthcare access, especially in rural communities where geographical barriers can be significant. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication management through telehealth platforms can significantly improve the quality of life for arthritis patients. Practices with robust telemedicine programs will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. It is important to ascertain if the local practices have invested in the technology, training, and infrastructure necessary to support effective telehealth services.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of arthritis care. Chronic pain, mobility limitations, and the overall impact of arthritis can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will score higher on the Arthritis Score. This integrated approach recognizes the holistic needs of patients and underscores the importance of addressing both physical and psychological well-being.

Specifics about the availability of specialists are also critical. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the ability of PCPs to refer patients to rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, and other specialists is crucial. The Arthritis Score will be affected by the proximity and availability of such specialists. Long travel distances, limited appointment availability, and a lack of specialized care options would negatively impact the score. The presence of a strong network of specialists, readily accessible to patients, is essential for optimal arthritis management.

Another factor is the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that have implemented comprehensive EHR systems can streamline patient care, improve communication between providers, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. EHRs allow for better tracking of patient progress, medication adherence, and the effectiveness of treatment plans. Practices that utilize EHRs will be given a higher score, reflecting their commitment to efficiency and patient-centered care.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score will consider the practice's commitment to patient education. Providing patients with clear and concise information about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies is essential for empowering them to take an active role in their care. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or access to online resources will receive a higher score.

The availability of ancillary services also contributes to the Arthritis Score. This includes access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive services that can help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Practices that have strong relationships with these providers or offer these services on-site will receive a higher score.

Finally, the Arthritis Score will consider the practice's overall patient satisfaction. While it is difficult to assess this definitively without patient surveys, factors such as online reviews, patient testimonials, and the practice's reputation within the community can provide some insight. Practices with a strong track record of patient satisfaction will receive a higher score.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for doctors in ZIP code 26253 and primary care availability in Beverly, WV, is a complex evaluation dependent on a variety of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, access to specialists, and patient satisfaction are all critical components. While a definitive numerical score cannot be provided due to data limitations, a comprehensive assessment of these factors is vital for understanding the quality and accessibility of arthritis care in the area.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Beverly and surrounding areas, and to visualize the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other relevant services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize healthcare data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.