26137, Big Springs, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26137, Big Springs, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.15 percent of the residents in 26137 has some form of health insurance. 48.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.56 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 26137 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26137. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 176 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 108 health care providers accessible to residents in 26137, Big Springs, West Virginia.

The health landscape of Big Springs, West Virginia, and the surrounding ZIP code 26137 presents a complex picture when assessing overall health scores. Evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial, as this forms the foundation of preventative medicine and ongoing health management. The analysis delves into physician-to-patient ratios, highlights notable practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and considers the presence of mental health resources to provide a comprehensive overview. This assessment aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the health ecosystem within this specific geographical area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of patients per physician, generally suggests better access. Conversely, a high ratio can indicate potential challenges, such as longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing medical professionals. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 26137 requires accessing data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau. However, based on national averages and rural healthcare trends, it is likely that the ratio in this area faces challenges, potentially exceeding the ideal. This disparity could be attributed to factors such as geographic isolation, the outmigration of young professionals, and the limited appeal of rural practice for newly graduated physicians.

Identifying standout practices is essential for understanding the quality of care available. These practices may differentiate themselves through specialized services, patient-centered care models, or innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Researching local healthcare providers, including their websites, patient reviews, and accreditations, can reveal insights into their strengths and weaknesses. For example, a practice with a strong emphasis on preventative medicine, offering comprehensive wellness programs, and employing a team of nurses and support staff could represent a high-quality option. Similarly, a practice that actively participates in community outreach and education programs demonstrates a commitment to the overall health of the population.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of assessing healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can overcome geographical barriers and expand access to specialists and other healthcare providers. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services in 26137 involves examining local practices' websites and contacting them to inquire about their telemedicine offerings. This may include virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve patient convenience and expand the scope of their services.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. Access to mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, is essential for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health disorders. Assessing mental health resources in 26137 requires investigating the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. This may involve searching online directories, contacting local hospitals and clinics, and inquiring about the availability of mental health services within the community. The presence of support groups, such as those focused on anxiety, depression, or substance abuse, can also contribute to a robust mental health ecosystem.

The overall health score for 26137, based on the factors discussed, will likely reflect a mixed picture. While the presence of dedicated primary care practices and potential telemedicine adoption may provide some positive indicators, the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialized services, including mental health resources, may present challenges. The quality of care will vary among different practices, and patients should research their options carefully.

Further research should delve into the specific challenges faced by the local healthcare system. This includes investigating the prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, and assessing the effectiveness of preventative care programs. Understanding the social determinants of health, such as poverty, education, and access to healthy food, is also essential. These factors significantly influence health outcomes and must be considered when evaluating the overall health score.

Addressing the healthcare needs of 26137 requires a multifaceted approach. This includes efforts to recruit and retain physicians, expand telemedicine services, and increase access to mental health resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial for improving the overall health of the population. Investing in preventative care programs, promoting healthy lifestyles, and addressing the social determinants of health can also contribute to long-term improvements.

The availability of detailed geographic data is invaluable for understanding and addressing healthcare disparities. Visualizing healthcare resources, such as the locations of physicians, hospitals, and mental health facilities, on a map can provide a clear picture of access and identify areas with unmet needs. This type of geospatial analysis can inform decision-making and guide the allocation of resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26137 and visualize the data discussed, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can display a variety of healthcare-related data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and demographic information. Using CartoChrome maps, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the health ecosystem in Big Springs and the surrounding area.