26175, Sistersville, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26175, Sistersville, West Virginia is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.68 percent of the residents in 26175 has some form of health insurance. 53.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.01 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 26175 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 798 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26175. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 688 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 318 health care providers accessible to residents in 26175, Sistersville, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sistersville, WV (ZIP Code 26175)

Evaluating the overall health landscape in Sistersville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26175) requires a nuanced understanding of several interconnected factors. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the community's healthcare strengths and weaknesses, culminating in a call to action for enhanced visualization using CartoChrome maps.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Sistersville, a small town in Tyler County, faces the challenges common to rural areas, including potential physician shortages. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, as well as their willingness to accept new patients. This is not a simple count; it demands consideration of physician specialties (family medicine, internal medicine, etc.) and the scope of services offered. The presence of specialists, even those not directly in primary care, is important. Their presence can augment the services available to the patient population.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical metric. This ratio reflects the number of residents served by each PCP. A higher ratio suggests a potential strain on existing resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced physician availability. The national average provides a benchmark for comparison. A ratio significantly exceeding the national average indicates a need for increased medical staffing or the implementation of innovative solutions to improve access to care. It is crucial to consider the age and health profiles of the population, as a community with a higher proportion of elderly residents or individuals with chronic conditions may require a higher concentration of healthcare providers.

Identifying standout medical practices involves evaluating several key aspects. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, and the adoption of modern technologies. Reviews from patients, data on health outcomes, and accreditations from reputable organizations all contribute to this assessment. A practice demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, employing advanced diagnostic tools, and actively participating in community health initiatives would be considered a standout. These practices often serve as models for others, driving overall improvements in the quality of healthcare delivery.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and electronic prescription services, can significantly enhance the healthcare experience for residents of Sistersville. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of these services, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telehealth into the existing healthcare infrastructure. Successful telemedicine implementation can reduce the burden on local healthcare providers and improve patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is crucial for addressing mental health concerns and promoting well-being. Assessing the mental health landscape involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered (therapy, medication management, crisis intervention), and the accessibility of these services (cost, wait times, insurance acceptance). A community with robust mental health resources demonstrates a commitment to the holistic well-being of its residents.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Sistersville, WV (26175) requires a comprehensive approach that considers all these factors. The specific data for Sistersville will determine the overall health score. A high score would indicate readily available primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout medical practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in these areas, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes for residents. This analysis needs to be updated regularly to reflect changes in the local healthcare environment.

Further analysis may include a comparison of Sistersville's healthcare landscape with other similar rural communities. This comparative approach can identify best practices and highlight areas where Sistersville can improve. The involvement of community stakeholders, including healthcare providers, residents, and local government officials, is essential for developing and implementing effective strategies to improve healthcare access and quality.

The process of assessing the health landscape in Sistersville is complex, but the insights gained are invaluable. The data gathered and analyzed will help to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. This understanding can guide the development of targeted interventions and policies designed to improve the health and well-being of the community.

To gain a deeper, more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sistersville and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the use of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can visually represent the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data, providing a powerful tool for analysis and decision-making. CartoChrome maps allow for the identification of healthcare gaps and the development of data-driven strategies to improve healthcare access and outcomes. Consider using CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the data discussed in this report.