25186, Smithers, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 25186, Smithers, West Virginia is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.27 percent of the residents in 25186 has some form of health insurance. 59.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.90 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 25186 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 150 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25186. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 454 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 138 health care providers accessible to residents in 25186, Smithers, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Smithers, WV (ZIP Code 25186)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the Smithers, West Virginia area, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 25186. The evaluation considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Due to the nature of this analysis, precise numerical scores are not feasible without access to proprietary datasets. However, we can establish a relative ranking and highlight key strengths and weaknesses.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

Smithers, like many rural communities, likely faces challenges regarding physician-to-patient ratios. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, often translates to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential strain on existing healthcare providers. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio for 25186 is crucial. Public health data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) might offer insights. Data from these sources would provide a baseline for comparison against state and national averages. The availability of primary care physicians, including general practitioners, family doctors, and internal medicine specialists, is paramount.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc, offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Analyzing these reviews can reveal practices known for excellent patient communication, efficient appointment scheduling, and positive health outcomes. Furthermore, accreditation status from organizations like the Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) indicates a commitment to quality and safety standards. Investigating the range of services offered is also vital. Do practices offer comprehensive primary care, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and specialist referrals? The presence of on-site laboratory services or imaging capabilities can also enhance the convenience and efficiency of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in Smithers involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The availability of secure video conferencing platforms, electronic health record (EHR) integration, and the ability to prescribe medications electronically are all indicators of a practice's commitment to telemedicine. The ease of access to reliable internet connectivity in the area is also a critical factor.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health resources in Smithers is a significant factor in the overall health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors (LPCs), and social workers. Assessing the availability of these professionals, including their acceptance of insurance, is critical. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator. Co-locating mental health providers with primary care physicians can improve access to care, reduce stigma, and facilitate coordinated treatment. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services also contributes to a more robust mental health ecosystem.

**Challenges and Areas for Improvement:**

Smithers, like many rural communities, may face challenges related to healthcare access. Limited physician availability, transportation barriers, and socioeconomic factors can all contribute to disparities in healthcare access. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. This could include initiatives to attract and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine services, improve transportation options for patients, and address social determinants of health. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to improve the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Ranking and Conclusion:**

Based on the preliminary assessment, the "Overall Health Score" for primary care availability in Smithers (ZIP code 25186) is likely moderate. While the area may have dedicated primary care providers, the physician-to-patient ratio could be a limiting factor. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services may vary among practices. Further research is needed to obtain specific data to create a more precise score.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smithers and other areas, consider exploring the power of geospatial data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the distribution of health disparities. This allows for data-driven decision-making and targeted resource allocation to improve healthcare access and outcomes.