26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 26104 has some form of health insurance. 45.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.43 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 26104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,514 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26104. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,613 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,017 health care providers accessible to residents in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Parkersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26104)

This analysis provides an ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment for the medical landscape within ZIP code 26104, encompassing Parkersburg, West Virginia. It focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in the area.

Parkersburg, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique set of healthcare challenges and opportunities. Factors like an aging population, potential socioeconomic disparities, and the geographic distribution of resources all influence the overall health score. A robust healthcare system is crucial for the well-being of its residents.

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

A fundamental indicator of community health is the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in 26104 is a critical metric. While specific, publicly available data on this ratio for this precise ZIP code can be challenging to obtain, data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) provide valuable insights. These sources, when analyzed, often reveal whether Parkersburg, and by extension 26104, faces a shortage of PCPs, or if it is comparable to the national average. Areas with a lower physician-to-patient ratio typically suggest better access to care.

The availability of PCPs is further assessed by considering appointment wait times, the acceptance of new patients, and the types of insurance accepted. Longer wait times, closed practices, or limited insurance acceptance can indicate a strained primary care system, negatively impacting the overall health score.

**Standout Practices:**

Within Parkersburg, certain medical practices stand out due to their quality of care, patient satisfaction, and innovative approaches. These practices often serve as models for others. Factors considered include the use of electronic health records (EHRs), patient-centered care models, and the adoption of evidence-based practices.

The presence of practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as hospitals, often indicates a broader range of services and resources. Reputation, as reflected in patient reviews and ratings, is also a key factor. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. The size of the practice and the diversity of specialties offered also contribute to the assessment.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely via technology, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in 26104 is assessed by considering the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms.

The benefits of telemedicine include increased access to care, reduced travel time, and improved management of chronic conditions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score. The ease of use of telehealth platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine with existing patient care workflows are all crucial considerations.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability and accessibility of mental health services in 26104 are crucial components of the overall health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors.

Factors assessed include the number of mental health professionals per capita, the availability of crisis intervention services, and the existence of support groups and community mental health programs. The integration of mental health services with primary care is also considered, as this can improve the detection and treatment of mental health conditions. The availability of mental health services for children and adolescents is particularly important.

**Overall Health Score Synthesis:**

Synthesizing all these factors, an ‘Overall Health Score’ for 26104 can be generated. This score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the complex interplay of various healthcare elements. The score would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and accessibility of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

A higher score would indicate a more robust and accessible healthcare system, with better outcomes for residents. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, increasing access to mental health services, and promoting the adoption of innovative technologies.

**Challenges and Opportunities:**

Parkersburg, like many communities, faces challenges in healthcare. These may include physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and socioeconomic disparities that impact health outcomes. However, these challenges also present opportunities for improvement.

Investing in primary care, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing the availability of mental health resources can all contribute to a higher overall health score. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address these challenges and create a healthier community.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape in Parkersburg, WV (26104) is a complex system with unique strengths and weaknesses. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the factors that contribute to the overall health of the community. By assessing primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a comprehensive picture emerges.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Parkersburg and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and the demographics of the community.