26150, Mineral Wells, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26150, Mineral Wells, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.28 percent of the residents in 26150 has some form of health insurance. 39.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.89 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 26150 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26150. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 959 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,278 health care providers accessible to residents in 26150, Mineral Wells, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26150 and Primary Care Availability in Mineral Wells

Evaluating the overall health landscape within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians in Mineral Wells, West Virginia (ZIP code 26150), aiming to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment. This score, though not a single numerical value, is derived from a synthesis of key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

Mineral Wells, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The primary concern is the potential for limited access to care, particularly in primary care. This is often reflected in the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Determining the precise ratio for 26150 requires data from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and other relevant sources. However, even without a precise number, the general trend in rural areas like Mineral Wells often leans towards a shortage of primary care physicians, a factor that would negatively impact the overall health score.

The presence of standout practices can significantly influence the health score. These practices are characterized by a commitment to patient-centered care, utilization of advanced technologies, and a focus on preventative medicine. In Mineral Wells, identifying such practices involves researching local physician groups and individual practitioners. Key indicators of a high-quality practice include board certification, positive patient reviews, and participation in quality improvement initiatives. Additionally, the availability of extended hours, weekend appointments, and same-day appointments contributes to improved accessibility and positively impacts the health score. The absence of these factors, or a lack of information suggesting their presence, would negatively affect the assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly crucial, especially in rural areas. It offers a means of overcoming geographical barriers and providing access to care for patients who may struggle to travel to a physical office. The availability of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly enhance the health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine adoption suggests a missed opportunity to improve access and potentially hinders the overall health score. Investigating the availability of telehealth services in Mineral Wells is therefore crucial to understanding the overall health landscape.

Mental health resources are another critical component of a comprehensive health assessment. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling services, is essential for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. A lack of such resources can negatively impact the overall health score. Assessing the presence of mental health providers in 26150, and their accessibility, is a key factor in determining the overall health score. The existence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health specialists would positively influence the assessment.

Beyond the core components, other factors can also influence the health score. These include the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, and the presence of community health programs that promote wellness and disease prevention. The involvement of local hospitals and clinics in community outreach initiatives, such as health screenings and educational programs, would also positively impact the overall assessment.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Overall Health Score' for doctors in ZIP code 26150 and primary care availability in Mineral Wells requires a detailed investigation into physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of existing practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health services would all positively influence the score. Conversely, a high physician-to-patient ratio, a lack of telemedicine adoption, and limited access to mental health resources would negatively impact the assessment. The overall assessment, therefore, is a complex one, reflecting the interplay of multiple factors that contribute to the health and well-being of the community.

To visualize and further analyze the health landscape in Mineral Wells and surrounding areas, including the distribution of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.