26141, Creston, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26141, Creston, West Virginia is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.11 percent of the residents in 26141 has some form of health insurance. 56.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.67 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 26141 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26141. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 101 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 79 health care providers accessible to residents in 26141, Creston, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Creston, WV (ZIP Code 26141)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Creston, West Virginia, and the surrounding ZIP code 26141 necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors: the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence and utilization of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care delivered. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In Creston, this access is a significant concern. The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential workforce shortages, likely contributes to a limited number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the immediate vicinity. While specific physician counts fluctuate, the overall impression is one of scarcity, potentially forcing residents to travel considerable distances to receive routine medical attention. This geographical challenge impacts access to preventative care, chronic disease management, and timely treatment of acute illnesses.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with their physicians during consultations, and increased difficulty in establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care provider. In 26141, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely unfavorable, placing a greater burden on existing healthcare resources and potentially contributing to poorer health outcomes. Data from state and national health organizations must be consulted to determine the exact ratio.

Identifying standout practices, if any, is essential. Some practices might excel in patient satisfaction, offer specialized services, or demonstrate innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. However, in a rural setting with limited resources, finding truly "standout" practices is a challenge. The focus might shift to identifying practices that are actively working to improve patient access and quality of care, even if they face significant resource constraints. This could involve examining patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the adoption of technology.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in bridging geographical barriers and improving healthcare access. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding the reach of healthcare services. The adoption rate in 26141 is likely influenced by several factors, including internet connectivity, patient and physician familiarity with technology, and reimbursement policies for telemedicine services. While telemedicine offers considerable potential, its effectiveness hinges on robust infrastructure and widespread acceptance within the community.

Mental health resources are often under-resourced in rural areas. The prevalence of mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, is a significant public health concern. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is often limited in rural settings. The lack of access to mental health services can have devastating consequences, leading to increased rates of suicide, substance abuse, and chronic disease. Assessing the availability of mental health resources, including the presence of mental health clinics, telehealth options, and support groups, is crucial for understanding the overall health landscape.

The quality of care delivered is a complex concept, encompassing various factors, including patient satisfaction, clinical outcomes, and adherence to evidence-based practices. Assessing the quality of care in 26141 requires a comprehensive review of available data, including hospital readmission rates, preventative care screening rates, and patient feedback. The challenge lies in obtaining sufficient data to draw definitive conclusions.

The overall health score for 26141 is likely to be moderate, reflecting the challenges inherent in rural healthcare delivery. The limited availability of primary care physicians, the unfavorable physician-to-patient ratio, and the potential scarcity of mental health resources are significant concerns. While telemedicine offers a promising solution, its effectiveness depends on its widespread adoption. The focus should be on identifying and addressing these challenges to improve the health and well-being of the community.

The health landscape is dynamic. The score is not static. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and identify areas requiring further attention. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers is critical for improving healthcare access and quality in Creston. The goal should be to create a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and responsive to the needs of the community.

Addressing the healthcare challenges in Creston requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding telemedicine capabilities, increasing access to mental health services, and promoting preventative care. The community must advocate for policies that support rural healthcare and invest in infrastructure that facilitates access to care.

The analysis reveals a complex situation. The health of a community reflects the interplay of various factors, from the availability of healthcare providers to the socioeconomic conditions of the population. Addressing the healthcare challenges in Creston requires a comprehensive understanding of these factors and a commitment to implementing effective solutions.

The overall health score is a snapshot in time. It is a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve the health and well-being of the community. The score can be used to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and advocate for resources and policies that support healthcare access and quality.

The success of any effort to improve healthcare access and quality depends on collaboration. Healthcare providers, community organizations, policymakers, and residents must work together to create a healthier community. This requires a shared vision, a commitment to action, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.

The overall health score is a valuable tool for understanding the health landscape in Creston. It provides a framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement. By using this information, the community can work together to create a healthier future.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Creston, WV (ZIP Code 26141) and explore the factors influencing its health score, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help you analyze healthcare data, identify areas with limited access to care, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources.