26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.78 percent of the residents in 26143 has some form of health insurance. 49.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.84 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 26143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 812 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26143. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 812 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,962 health care providers accessible to residents in 26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Elizabeth, WV (ZIP Code 26143)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Elizabeth, West Virginia (ZIP code 26143) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This holistic assessment aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the community.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Elizabeth, a rural setting, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians for a larger population, can signify potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, preventive care, and chronic disease management. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) would be crucial in determining the precise ratio for this specific ZIP code. Researching the number of practicing PCPs, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, compared to the estimated population of 26143 will provide a baseline understanding.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and reputation of existing medical practices are paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves examining patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and investigating any affiliations with larger healthcare systems. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, offer comprehensive care, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered services would contribute positively to the overall health score. This assessment should consider factors like appointment availability, wait times, and the overall patient experience. Furthermore, exploring the presence of specialized services, such as diabetes education programs or chronic disease management clinics, would be beneficial.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in Elizabeth could significantly impact access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. Assessing the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills, is vital. Practices that embrace telemedicine can enhance patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and potentially improve health outcomes. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor in determining the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, within or near Elizabeth is a significant factor in the health score. Investigating the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of individual and group therapy sessions, and the accessibility of crisis intervention services is essential. Furthermore, understanding the prevalence of mental health conditions within the community, based on available data, would provide valuable context. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referrals, is also an important consideration.

To arrive at a comprehensive "Overall Health Score," each of these factors – physician-to-patient ratio, quality of practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – must be carefully evaluated and weighted. The physician-to-patient ratio would likely carry significant weight, as it directly impacts access to care. The quality and reputation of practices would also be a critical factor, reflecting the standard of care available. Telemedicine adoption, while beneficial, might carry a slightly lower weight, depending on the extent of its implementation and the community's technological infrastructure. Mental health resources, given their importance, would be assigned a substantial weight, reflecting the critical need for these services.

The final score would be a composite of these weighted factors, providing a numerical representation of the overall health landscape in Elizabeth. This score, while not a definitive measure, serves as a valuable tool for identifying strengths and weaknesses within the community's healthcare system. This analysis should be viewed as a starting point for further investigation, including detailed data collection and community input.

This analysis also needs to consider the potential impact of socioeconomic factors on health outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food options, and limited educational opportunities can all contribute to health disparities. These factors, while not directly assessed in this analysis, should be acknowledged as influencing the overall health of the community.

Further research should involve a review of local hospital and clinic websites, patient reviews, and publicly available health data from the WVDHHR and HRSA. Contacting local medical practices to inquire about their services, appointment availability, and telemedicine offerings would provide valuable insights. Engaging with community stakeholders, including residents, healthcare providers, and local government officials, would offer a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare needs and challenges within Elizabeth.

Ultimately, a thorough assessment of the healthcare landscape in Elizabeth, WV (ZIP code 26143) requires a comprehensive approach. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that contribute to the community's overall health and highlights the importance of accessible primary care, quality medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This detailed assessment offers a clear picture of the health landscape.