26151, Mount Zion, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26151, Mount Zion, West Virginia is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.51 percent of the residents in 26151 has some form of health insurance. 65.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.63 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 26151 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 174 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26151. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 146 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 81 health care providers accessible to residents in 26151, Mount Zion, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26151 & Primary Care Availability in Mount Zion

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP code 26151, encompassing the community of Mount Zion, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, including physician availability, resource accessibility, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. We will assess these elements to generate an "Overall Health Score," providing a nuanced understanding of the area's healthcare strengths and weaknesses.

The cornerstone of any community's health is the availability of primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a crucial indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. In ZIP code 26151, a detailed assessment of the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. This involves identifying the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the geographical boundaries and comparing it to the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide this information. This data will be compared against national and state averages to determine if the area is underserved or adequately served.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are critical. We need to identify standout practices within the ZIP code. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, women's health, pediatric care), and the practice's commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and offer online patient portals often demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and patient communication. Investigating the availability of after-hours care and same-day appointments is also essential. These factors significantly impact patient convenience and access to timely medical attention.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate within ZIP code 26151 is a key factor in assessing the Overall Health Score. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote patient monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. Examining the types of telemedicine services offered, the technology used, and the ease of access for patients is crucial. Assessing the insurance coverage for telemedicine services within the area is also important, as this can impact its affordability and utilization.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is a crucial component of the health score. Assessing the number of mental health providers within the ZIP code and evaluating their capacity to meet the community's needs is essential. This includes examining the availability of specialized services, such as therapy for children, adolescents, and the elderly. Additionally, the presence of support groups, mental health clinics, and partnerships with local hospitals or community organizations should be considered. The integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling services, can further enhance accessibility.

The presence of community resources and support networks also plays a vital role. This includes the availability of social services, such as food banks, transportation assistance, and programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These resources can help address social determinants of health, which significantly impact overall well-being. Assessing the level of collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations is crucial, as this can facilitate referrals and improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the overall health score should incorporate an assessment of health outcomes data, when available. This includes examining rates of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, as well as mortality rates. Analyzing this data can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the healthcare system and identify areas where improvements are needed. Public health data from sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can provide this information.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources within the ZIP code is another factor to consider. Are primary care practices and specialists evenly distributed, or are there pockets of underserved areas? Analyzing the location of healthcare facilities and the population density can help identify potential disparities in access to care. This analysis may reveal the need for mobile health clinics or outreach programs to serve remote or underserved populations.

Finally, the Overall Health Score will reflect the community's commitment to preventative care and health education. This includes assessing the availability of health education programs, such as those focused on nutrition, exercise, and disease prevention. The presence of community health initiatives, such as free health screenings or vaccination programs, can also contribute to a higher score.

In conclusion, evaluating the Overall Health Score for doctors in ZIP code 26151 and primary care availability in Mount Zion requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community support networks. By carefully analyzing these elements, we can gain a nuanced understanding of the area's healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

Want to visualize this data and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources within ZIP code 26151? Visit CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Zion and the surrounding area.