26148, Macfarlan, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26148, Macfarlan, West Virginia is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.10 percent of the residents in 26148 has some form of health insurance. 21.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.04 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 26148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26148. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 13 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 108 health care providers accessible to residents in 26148, Macfarlan, West Virginia.

The health landscape of Macfarlan, West Virginia, specifically within the ZIP code 26148, presents a unique profile when assessing overall health. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources to formulate an 'Overall Health Score' for the region. While a numerical score is difficult to assign without access to real-time, comprehensive data, a qualitative assessment can paint a picture of the area's healthcare strengths and weaknesses.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a healthy community. In Macfarlan, the accessibility of primary care physicians is a crucial factor. Determining the exact number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code is the first step. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the West Virginia Board of Medicine, can provide this information. However, the geographic isolation of Macfarlan, and its relatively small population, might mean that the number of primary care physicians is limited. This scarcity can significantly impact the ability of residents to receive timely and consistent care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. The national average ratio of primary care physicians to patients is often used as a benchmark. If Macfarlan’s ratio exceeds the national average, it suggests a shortage of physicians. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Factors like the age of the population and the prevalence of chronic diseases within the community further complicate the picture. A higher proportion of elderly residents, for example, often requires more frequent medical attention, thus increasing the demand on the existing physician pool.

Identifying standout practices within the area is also essential. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, demonstrate a commitment to preventative medicine, and embrace technology are valuable assets. These practices often contribute to a higher overall health score. Researching the reputation of local clinics, considering patient reviews, and evaluating the range of services offered can provide insights into the quality of care available. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or multilingual staff can further enhance accessibility.

Telemedicine adoption is a key indicator of a modern healthcare system. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, offers numerous benefits, particularly in rural areas like Macfarlan. It can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens for patients, and facilitate remote monitoring of chronic conditions. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access to these services are vital in evaluating the area's health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery.

The availability of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of overall health. Mental health is often overlooked, but it plays a significant role in physical well-being. Assessing the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within the area is essential. Furthermore, the presence of support groups, mental health awareness programs, and collaborations between primary care physicians and mental health professionals can contribute to a higher health score. The stigma surrounding mental health often deters individuals from seeking help, so the availability of accessible and confidential mental health services is particularly important.

Specific examples are difficult to provide without detailed data, but the analysis process should include identifying local hospitals, clinics, and individual practices. Reviewing their websites, contacting them directly, and consulting online directories can provide information on the services they offer, the insurance they accept, and the availability of appointments. It is important to note that the information gathered from these sources might not always be completely accurate or up-to-date.

The overall health score for Macfarlan (26148) is likely influenced by several factors. The geographic isolation of the area, the potential for a limited number of primary care physicians, and the need for robust mental health resources are all significant considerations. If physician-to-patient ratios are unfavorable, and if telemedicine adoption is low, the score might be negatively impacted. However, if there are standout practices that prioritize patient care and provide comprehensive services, the score could be improved. The presence of accessible mental health resources can also positively affect the score.

The assessment of the health score should also consider the socioeconomic factors of the community. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to healthy food options can all negatively impact health outcomes. These factors are not directly related to the availability of healthcare, but they can influence the overall health of the population. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis should consider these factors as well.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Macfarlan (26148) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves examining the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic factors of the community. While a definitive numerical score is challenging to assign without in-depth data, this qualitative analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the area's healthcare system.

For a visual representation of healthcare access in Macfarlan and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of geographic data. CartoChrome maps can provide detailed visualizations of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points. This can enhance your understanding of healthcare accessibility and resource distribution within the community.