26761, Shanks, West Virginia Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 26761, Shanks, West Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26761 has some form of health insurance. 56.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.25 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 26761 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26761. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 269 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 375 health care providers accessible to residents in 26761, Shanks, West Virginia.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26761 & Primary Care in Shanks

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare within ZIP code 26761 and specifically assessing primary care availability in Shanks, requires a multi-faceted approach. An "Arthritis Score" analysis, designed to gauge accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing arthritis, necessitates evaluating several key factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized arthritis care, adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of a rural area.

ZIP code 26761, encompassing the Shanks community, is predominantly rural. This geographical characteristic significantly impacts healthcare accessibility. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited appointment availability, and potentially reduced access to specialized care. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards would be essential to determine the precise ratio within 26761. This data would then be compared against national and state averages to determine if the area is underserved.

Beyond the raw numbers, the type of primary care available in Shanks is important. Are there family medicine practitioners, internal medicine specialists, or both? The presence of these specialties is critical for initial diagnosis and ongoing management of arthritis. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are key to managing the disease and improving the quality of life for patients. Specialized arthritis care, such as rheumatology, is often limited in rural areas. The absence of a rheumatologist within a reasonable driving distance necessitates a focus on the quality of primary care providers and their ability to manage arthritis symptoms.

Identifying standout practices within 26761 is crucial. This involves assessing the experience and training of physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic services like X-rays and blood tests, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved care coordination. Reviews from patients, if available, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall patient experience. The practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive care plans, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning would likely score higher in an Arthritis Score analysis.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly important in rural areas like Shanks. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and consultations without the need for lengthy travel. The availability of telehealth appointments for primary care visits, specialist consultations, and physical therapy is a significant factor in assessing the accessibility of care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive higher scores.

The often-overlooked aspect of arthritis management is the integration of mental health resources. Chronic pain, limited mobility, and the challenges of managing a chronic illness can significantly impact mental well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for comprehensive care. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals or have established referral networks for mental health services would receive a higher score in this area. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for individuals living with arthritis.

The Arthritis Score analysis would also consider the availability of resources such as physical therapy and occupational therapy. These therapies are essential for maintaining mobility, reducing pain, and improving the overall quality of life for individuals with arthritis. The availability of these services within the community, or within a reasonable travel distance, is a key factor in assessing the accessibility of care. Furthermore, the availability of resources like patient education materials, support groups, and access to medication assistance programs would also contribute to the overall score.

Assessing the quality of care involves examining the use of evidence-based treatments and adherence to clinical guidelines. The Arthritis Score analysis would consider whether physicians are prescribing appropriate medications, recommending physical therapy, and offering other evidence-based interventions. The use of EHRs allows for tracking patient outcomes and monitoring treatment effectiveness. Practices that actively monitor patient outcomes and make adjustments to treatment plans based on the data would receive a higher score.

Furthermore, the analysis would take into account the affordability of care. The cost of healthcare, including physician visits, medications, and physical therapy, can be a significant barrier to access. The availability of insurance coverage, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of financial assistance programs would be considered in the Arthritis Score analysis. Practices that are transparent about their pricing and offer assistance to patients who are struggling to afford care would receive a higher score.

The overall Arthritis Score for doctors in ZIP code 26761, and specifically the primary care availability in Shanks, would be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. The score would be presented on a scale, allowing for easy comparison of the healthcare landscape in the area. The analysis would highlight areas of strength and weakness, providing valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

This analysis is a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, and it is important to recognize that the situation can change over time. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are essential to ensure that the Arthritis Score remains relevant and reflects the current state of healthcare in the area.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26761, and to visualize the location of healthcare providers, their specialties, and the availability of resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive and intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape.