26430, Sand Fork, West Virginia Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 26430, Sand Fork, West Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 19.94 percent of the residents in 26430 has some form of health insurance. 11.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 10.81 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 26430 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 76 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26430. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 24 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 493 health care providers accessible to residents in 26430, Sand Fork, West Virginia.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26430 and Primary Care Availability in Sand Fork

This analysis evaluates the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within ZIP code 26430, with a specific focus on their capacity to address the needs of patients suffering from arthritis. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical factors influencing the quality of care available to individuals managing this chronic condition in Sand Fork, West Virginia.

The foundation of accessible arthritis care lies in the presence of readily available primary care physicians. ZIP code 26430, a rural area encompassing Sand Fork, likely faces challenges common to such regions: a potential shortage of healthcare providers and a geographically dispersed population. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is therefore paramount. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, combined with information from professional medical organizations, can provide a baseline understanding of the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code. This figure needs to be weighed against the estimated population of 26430, including any potential influx of patients from neighboring areas. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, could significantly impede timely access to care, delaying diagnosis and treatment for arthritis sufferers.

The analysis also considers the presence of "standout practices." These are healthcare facilities that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. This includes practices that have a dedicated rheumatologist, or a primary care physician with a specialized interest in arthritis. Furthermore, the presence of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs) within the practice or nearby is crucial. These resources facilitate a multidisciplinary approach to arthritis management, a cornerstone of effective treatment. The analysis seeks to identify practices that actively participate in continuing medical education related to arthritis, demonstrating a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care, especially in rural areas like Sand Fork. The analysis examines the extent to which primary care physicians in 26430 utilize telemedicine platforms for patient consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients, allowing them to connect with their doctors remotely, reducing the need for frequent travel, and minimizing disruptions to their daily lives. The analysis considers the types of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care workflow.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health resources is crucial for arthritis patients. Living with chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The analysis investigates the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices or within the broader healthcare network serving 26430. This includes the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors) and the availability of mental health support groups or educational programs. The integration of mental health screening and treatment into the primary care setting is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach to arthritis care.

Specific examples of practices and services within the ZIP code, if available through public records or through targeted outreach, would be included. For instance, if a local clinic actively participates in arthritis research or offers specialized programs for arthritis patients, this would be highlighted as a positive indicator. The analysis also considers the availability of patient education materials, such as brochures, online resources, and support groups. These resources empower patients to actively participate in their own care and make informed decisions about their treatment.

The analysis recognizes the limitations inherent in a ZIP code-level assessment. Data availability can be limited, and the specific practices and services offered may change over time. Furthermore, the quality of care is not solely determined by the availability of resources but also by the individual physician's expertise, the patient-physician relationship, and the patient's own engagement in their care. However, this analysis provides a valuable snapshot of the current state of primary care availability and its capacity to address the needs of arthritis patients in Sand Fork, West Virginia.

The final "Arthritis Score" would be a composite measure reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This score would provide a relative ranking of the healthcare landscape within 26430, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require improvement. This score would be a valuable tool for patients seeking care, for healthcare providers seeking to improve their services, and for policymakers seeking to address healthcare disparities in rural communities.

The analysis would conclude with a discussion of the potential impact of the findings on the overall health and well-being of the residents of Sand Fork. It would highlight the importance of addressing any identified gaps in care and promoting initiatives that improve access to quality arthritis treatment.

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