26218, French Creek, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26218, French Creek, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.17 percent of the residents in 26218 has some form of health insurance. 40.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.74 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 26218 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 974 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26218. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 370 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,800 health care providers accessible to residents in 26218, French Creek, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: French Creek, WV (ZIP Code 26218)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within the French Creek, West Virginia (ZIP code 26218) area requires a multifaceted approach, considering the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the supporting infrastructure, and the overall health outcomes of the population. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, focusing on key metrics, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In French Creek, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Rural communities often face shortages, impacting timely access to care. The availability of primary care physicians, including general practitioners, family medicine doctors, and internal medicine specialists, is paramount. The specific ratio in 26218 needs to be ascertained. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential bottlenecks in appointments, longer wait times, and potentially reduced preventative care. This impacts the 'Overall Health Score' negatively.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is essential. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single location, or are they spread out to serve the wider community? Geographic accessibility is a key consideration. Residents in more remote areas might face significant travel distances to reach a primary care provider, further exacerbating access issues. This geographical factor directly influences the 'Overall Health Score'.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. Practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilizing innovative approaches, and achieving positive health outcomes should be highlighted. These practices often serve as models for others, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) for better care coordination, and the implementation of evidence-based practices. Practices excelling in these areas contribute positively to the 'Overall Health Score'.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and chronic disease management services remotely. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in 26218 is a significant indicator of the area's responsiveness to evolving healthcare needs. Practices that have embraced telemedicine contribute positively to the 'Overall Health Score'. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine adoption may indicate a missed opportunity to improve access and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are often under-resourced in rural communities. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors is a crucial component of overall health. Access to mental health services is often limited, leading to delayed treatment and potentially worsening mental health conditions. The availability of these resources within and around 26218 is a significant factor in the 'Overall Health Score'. Partnerships between primary care providers and mental health specialists can improve care coordination and access to mental health services.

Preventative care is another critical aspect of the 'Overall Health Score'. The frequency of routine check-ups, screenings for chronic diseases (such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer), and vaccinations are all indicators of a proactive approach to healthcare. The availability of educational programs and resources that promote healthy lifestyles (e.g., nutrition, exercise, and smoking cessation) is also important. A community that prioritizes preventative care will likely have better health outcomes and a higher 'Overall Health Score'.

The socioeconomic factors of the population within 26218 also play a role. Factors like poverty levels, education attainment, and access to healthy food options can significantly impact health outcomes. Communities with higher rates of poverty and limited access to resources may experience poorer health outcomes, impacting the 'Overall Health Score'. Addressing these social determinants of health is critical for improving overall health.

The 'Overall Health Score' for 26218 can be conceptualized as a composite score, based on the weighted average of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, geographic accessibility, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, the emphasis on preventative care, and the socioeconomic factors of the population all contribute to the final score.

Based on the available information, a preliminary assessment of the 'Overall Health Score' for 26218 would likely be moderately challenging. Rural communities often face access challenges, but the presence of dedicated practices and the potential for telemedicine adoption can improve the score. The specific score will depend on the data available for each of the factors.

To improve the 'Overall Health Score' for 26218, several strategies can be considered. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is a top priority. Supporting the adoption of telemedicine by local practices can improve access. Investing in mental health resources, including expanding the availability of mental health professionals and integrating mental health services into primary care settings, is also crucial. Promoting preventative care through community health programs and educational initiatives can improve health outcomes.

The 'Overall Health Score' is not static; it is a dynamic measure that can change over time. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for identifying areas for improvement and tracking progress. Regular assessments of the key indicators discussed in this analysis will help to inform decision-making and guide efforts to improve the health and well-being of the residents of French Creek, West Virginia.

For a comprehensive, data-driven visualization of the healthcare landscape in 26218, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care, explore CartoChrome maps.