26236, Selbyville, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26236, Selbyville, West Virginia is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26236 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 26236 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26236. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 15 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,643 health care providers accessible to residents in 26236, Selbyville, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Selbyville, WV (ZIP Code 26236)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Selbyville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26236) necessitates a multifaceted approach. We will examine the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource access, and notable practices. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the community, acknowledging the unique challenges and opportunities present in a rural setting.

The most fundamental aspect of healthcare access is the availability of primary care physicians. In a rural area like Selbyville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer doctors per capita, can significantly impact access, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care opportunities, and increased reliance on emergency services. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires up-to-date data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau, but anecdotal evidence and local reports often point to a shortage of primary care providers in many rural West Virginia communities. This potential scarcity is a significant factor in assessing the overall health score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of the existing primary care practices are crucial. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing modern technologies, and actively engaging with the community. These practices often boast longer operating hours, offer same-day appointments when possible, and have a strong focus on preventative medicine. They also might be actively involved in community health initiatives, such as free health screenings or educational programs. Identifying these standout practices, and understanding their capacity to serve the local population, is essential for a nuanced evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption is another key consideration. In a geographically dispersed area like Selbyville, telemedicine can bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers. This technology allows for remote consultations, virtual monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The extent to which primary care practices in Selbyville have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, is a significant factor in determining the overall health score. A higher adoption rate, coupled with user-friendly platforms, would positively impact the score.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being, and their availability is particularly important in rural communities, which often face higher rates of mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial. This includes the presence of mental health clinics, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, a model that facilitates early detection and treatment, would be a significant positive indicator.

The overall health score is not solely determined by the presence of healthcare providers. It also considers the social determinants of health, which are the conditions in the environments where people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age that affect a wide range of health, functioning, and quality-of-life outcomes and risks. Factors such as poverty rates, access to healthy food, safe housing, and transportation infrastructure can significantly impact the health of the community. These factors must be considered when providing a complete assessment.

Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge the unique challenges faced by rural communities. These include limited access to specialists, transportation difficulties, and the potential for social isolation. The overall health score must reflect these realities and consider the efforts being made to address them. Community-based initiatives, such as mobile health clinics or partnerships between healthcare providers and local organizations, can play a vital role in improving health outcomes.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for Selbyville, WV (ZIP Code 26236) is a complex assessment that requires a detailed examination of various factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the quality of existing practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical components. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, and the integration of mental health services within primary care would all positively impact the score. Conversely, a shortage of primary care providers, limited telemedicine adoption, and a lack of mental health resources would negatively impact the score. Additionally, the social determinants of health and the unique challenges of rural communities must be considered. A comprehensive analysis would reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Selbyville, allowing for targeted interventions and improvements to enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Selbyville, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps.