26181, Washington, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26181, Washington, West Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.08 percent of the residents in 26181 has some form of health insurance. 47.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.62 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 26181 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,435 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26181. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,859 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 412 health care providers accessible to residents in 26181, Washington, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26181 & Primary Care Availability in Washington

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of healthcare within ZIP code 26181 and the broader context of primary care access in Washington state. We will examine key indicators like physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.

ZIP code 26181, encompassing the town of Williamstown, West Virginia, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare access. Its relatively small population and rural setting can influence the availability of medical professionals and specialized services. A crucial metric to consider is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio reflects the number of physicians, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), available to serve a given population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, along with national averages, can help establish a benchmark for comparison.

Within 26181, the presence of standout medical practices significantly impacts the overall health score. These practices, often characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, advanced technology adoption, and community involvement, can serve as beacons of quality. Evaluating these practices involves assessing their service offerings, patient satisfaction scores (if available), and the range of specialties they offer. Are they equipped to handle a broad spectrum of medical needs, or do residents need to travel outside the ZIP code for specialized care? The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists, is a crucial factor.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in evaluating the health score. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely via technology, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas where access to in-person care may be limited. The availability of telehealth options for primary care consultations, specialist appointments, and mental health services can significantly improve access and convenience for residents of 26181. Assessing the extent to which local practices have integrated telemedicine, the types of services offered remotely, and the ease of use for patients is essential.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent across all demographics, and access to timely and effective mental healthcare is essential for well-being. Evaluating the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and mental health support groups within 26181 and the surrounding areas is crucial. Are there readily accessible mental health services, or do residents face significant barriers to accessing this vital care? Examining the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also important, as this can improve early detection and treatment.

Expanding the scope to primary care availability in Washington state provides a broader context for the health score analysis. Washington, as a state, has its own unique challenges and strengths in healthcare. Analyzing the state-wide physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians allows us to compare 26181's situation to the state average. This comparison can highlight whether the ZIP code faces a greater or lesser shortage of primary care providers.

Furthermore, investigating the state's initiatives and policies related to healthcare access, such as programs aimed at expanding access to care in rural areas, can provide valuable insights. Are there state-sponsored programs that support telemedicine adoption or incentivize the recruitment of healthcare professionals to underserved areas? Understanding these initiatives can help assess the overall health landscape and identify potential opportunities for improvement in 26181.

The overall health score for doctors in 26181 and primary care availability in Washington is a composite of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of high-quality medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all weighted to determine the final score. This score provides a snapshot of the healthcare ecosystem, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require attention.

For instance, if 26181 exhibits a lower-than-average physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources, the overall health score would likely be lower. Conversely, if the ZIP code boasts a robust network of primary care physicians, widespread telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health services, the score would be higher. The state-wide context, including Washington's healthcare policies and initiatives, influences the overall score as well.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food can all negatively impact health. Understanding these factors is crucial for a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape. Are there community health programs or initiatives aimed at addressing these social determinants of health within 26181?

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for doctors in 26181 and primary care availability in Washington requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the influence of state-level policies all play a crucial role. By considering these factors, we can gain a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

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