26138, Brohard, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.42 percent of the residents in 26138 has some form of health insurance. 70.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.97 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 26138 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26138. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 111 health care providers accessible to residents in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26138 and Primary Care Availability in Brohard

Assessing the overall health landscape within a defined geographic area necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 26138, aiming to evaluate the availability and quality of primary care physicians, particularly in relation to the broader community of Brohard. We'll delve into key metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources, ultimately providing an 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a crucial indicator. A low ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times, rushed appointments, and potentially, a decline in preventative care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater access to care, facilitating early detection and management of health issues. While specific, publicly available data on physician-to-patient ratios *within* ZIP Code 26138 can be challenging to obtain due to privacy regulations and data aggregation complexities, analyzing regional trends and utilizing resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide valuable insights. Brohard, as a community within this ZIP code, would likely experience the effects of any physician shortages or surpluses.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are the clinics and individual practitioners who consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care. Assessing this involves considering factors such as patient reviews, accreditations, the breadth of services offered, and the adoption of innovative practices. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and patient engagement. Furthermore, clinics that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or multilingual services can significantly enhance accessibility for diverse populations. The presence of board-certified physicians and specialists within a practice further contributes to its quality rating.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of practices within 26138 involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the ease of use of the technology for both patients and providers.

Mental health resources represent a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is paramount. The ability to access mental health services locally can reduce the stigma associated with seeking help and facilitate early intervention for mental health conditions. Assessing the mental health landscape within 26138 involves identifying the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the availability of crisis intervention services. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is also a key indicator of a well-integrated healthcare system.

Considering these factors, we can begin to formulate an 'Overall Health Score' for the area. This score, while not a precise numerical value without comprehensive data, provides a qualitative assessment of the health landscape. A high score would indicate a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care, a robust adoption of telemedicine, and a comprehensive network of mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care, such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine options, and a scarcity of mental health services.

The specific practices within 26138 would be assessed based on patient reviews, the range of services they provide, and their adoption of modern technologies. The presence of specialized care, such as cardiology or dermatology, would also be considered, though primary care availability remains the priority. The integration of EHRs, patient portals, and the availability of online appointment scheduling would contribute positively to a practice's score.

In Brohard, the focus would be on how accessible primary care is. Is there a clinic within a reasonable distance? Are there transportation options for those who need them? Are services available to accommodate the needs of the community? The answers to these questions, combined with the broader analysis of 26138, would inform the overall assessment.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not static; it is subject to change based on evolving factors. The arrival of new physicians, the expansion of existing practices, the implementation of new telemedicine programs, and the establishment of new mental health resources can all positively impact the score. Conversely, physician retirements, clinic closures, or a lack of investment in mental health services can negatively affect the score.

The assessment process should also consider the socioeconomic factors of the community. Income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to transportation can all influence health outcomes. Communities with higher rates of poverty and limited access to healthcare resources may require more targeted interventions to improve their overall health.

In conclusion, evaluating the health landscape within 26138 and specifically in Brohard is a complex undertaking. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating mental health resources, a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' can be formulated. This score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and for identifying areas where improvements are needed. Further investigation, including local data collection and community engagement, is essential to refine this assessment and develop effective strategies for improving the health and well-being of the community.