26187, Williamstown, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26187, Williamstown, West Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.94 percent of the residents in 26187 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.40 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 26187 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,195 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26187. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,407 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 457 health care providers accessible to residents in 26187, Williamstown, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Williamstown, WV (ZIP Code 26187)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Williamstown, West Virginia, specifically focusing on ZIP code 26187, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telehealth, and the presence of mental health resources, culminating in an overall health score assessment. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform residents and potential newcomers.

Williamstown, a small town in Wood County, faces the typical challenges of rural healthcare. Population density is lower than in urban areas, which can translate to fewer healthcare providers per capita. This, in turn, impacts access to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatments. The overall health score for this area will be influenced by these inherent geographical constraints.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the ratio within 26187, and the surrounding Wood County, is crucial. Information from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau is essential to determine the actual ratio. A concerning ratio would negatively impact the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices is also vital. Some practices may excel in patient satisfaction, offer specialized services, or demonstrate a commitment to community health initiatives. Researching local practices, reviewing patient testimonials, and examining their accreditations can reveal these standout providers. Practices that embrace modern technologies, such as electronic health records and patient portals, contribute positively to the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in rural healthcare. Telehealth services can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and primary care physicians remotely. The availability of telehealth options within Williamstown, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), impacts the accessibility of care. Practices that have fully embraced telehealth will contribute positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are often under-resourced in rural areas. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for overall well-being. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups within Williamstown or nearby areas is crucial. The availability of these resources, along with their accessibility (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times), significantly influences the overall health score. A lack of readily available mental health services would negatively impact the score.

To arrive at an overall health score, each of these factors must be weighted and assessed. The physician-to-patient ratio carries considerable weight, as it directly impacts access to care. Telemedicine adoption and the presence of standout practices also contribute significantly. Mental health resources are another key indicator. The overall score will reflect a composite of these factors, indicating the relative strength or weakness of the healthcare environment in Williamstown.

The final score will be presented on a scale, perhaps from 1 to 10, with 10 representing the best possible healthcare environment. This score should not be viewed in isolation but rather in the context of the challenges and opportunities facing rural healthcare. The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment, highlighting areas for improvement and celebrating successes.

Williamstown's healthcare landscape, like many rural communities, likely faces challenges related to physician shortages and limited access to specialized services. However, the presence of dedicated primary care providers, the adoption of telehealth, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges. The overall health score will reflect the balance between these factors.

The overall health score is not static; it can change over time. The healthcare environment is dynamic, influenced by factors such as physician recruitment, technological advancements, and community initiatives. Regular reassessments are needed to track progress and identify emerging trends.

The overall health score for Williamstown, WV (ZIP Code 26187) is an estimate based on available data. It is crucial to consult with local healthcare providers and community organizations for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The score provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

The availability of primary care in Williamstown is a critical factor in its overall health score. The number of primary care physicians, their acceptance of insurance, and their appointment availability directly impact access to care. A shortage of primary care physicians would negatively impact the overall score.

The quality of primary care is also important. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and patient education, contribute positively to the overall health score. The presence of specialized services, such as diabetes education or physical therapy, can further enhance the score.

The overall health score also considers the community's health behaviors. Factors such as smoking rates, obesity prevalence, and access to healthy food options influence the overall health of the population. While these factors are not directly related to healthcare access, they are essential to understanding the health of the community.

The overall health score is a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can be used to identify areas for improvement, allocate resources effectively, and track progress over time. The score should be used in conjunction with other data sources, such as patient satisfaction surveys and health outcomes data, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.

The overall health score is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the score should be updated regularly to reflect these changes. The score should be viewed as a starting point for a more in-depth analysis of the healthcare environment in Williamstown.

The analysis of telemedicine adoption must include the types of telehealth services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the availability of technical support. Practices that offer a wide range of telehealth services and provide excellent patient support will contribute positively to the overall health score.

The analysis of mental health resources must include the availability of crisis intervention services, the acceptance of insurance by mental health providers, and the wait times for appointments. The presence of readily available and accessible mental health resources will significantly improve the overall health score.

For a comprehensive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Williamstown and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and demographic data, consider exploring the power of interactive mapping with CartoChrome.