26250, Belington, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26250, Belington, West Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.19 percent of the residents in 26250 has some form of health insurance. 45.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.15 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 26250 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,293 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26250. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 957 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,093 health care providers accessible to residents in 26250, Belington, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Belington, WV (ZIP Code 26250)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Belington, West Virginia, specifically within the 26250 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. It involves assessing the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the integration of technology like telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" based on these key indicators, offering a comprehensive view of the community's healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Belington, this availability is a critical factor. Assessing the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 26250 ZIP code, and comparing it to the population, gives us the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes.

The data suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians in the area. This is a common challenge in rural communities, where attracting and retaining medical professionals can be difficult. Factors like limited access to specialized medical services, geographical isolation, and lower reimbursement rates can contribute to this shortage. This scarcity of primary care providers significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score," pulling it downwards.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided is equally important. Identifying standout practices within the 26250 ZIP code requires examining factors like patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of best practices. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have a robust system for managing chronic diseases? These are all important considerations.

Furthermore, assessing the presence of board-certified physicians and the availability of specialized services, such as diabetes management or geriatric care, provides a deeper understanding of the healthcare quality. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive care, and actively engage in community outreach often demonstrate a higher level of commitment to patient well-being. The presence of such practices would positively influence the "Overall Health Score."

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of modern healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive virtual check-ups, and access specialist consultations without having to travel long distances. The extent to which practices in Belington have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring, is a significant factor in evaluating the "Overall Health Score."

Practices that readily utilize telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce patient travel time, and enhance the overall patient experience. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine infrastructure can further exacerbate the challenges of limited access to healthcare, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation limitations. The integration of telemedicine is a positive indicator, boosting the "Overall Health Score."

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the 26250 ZIP code is crucial. Assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, appointment availability) is vital.

The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships with local organizations can also enhance the mental health landscape. A robust network of mental health resources can significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" by addressing a critical aspect of overall well-being. Conversely, a scarcity of mental health providers and limited access to mental health services would negatively impact the score.

The "Overall Health Score" for Belington, WV (26250) is therefore influenced by the interplay of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. Given the potential shortage of primary care physicians and the challenges associated with rural healthcare, the score may be negatively impacted.

However, practices that prioritize patient care, embrace telemedicine, and collaborate with mental health providers can positively influence the score. The community's efforts to address these challenges, such as recruiting new physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing access to mental health resources, will ultimately determine the trajectory of the "Overall Health Score." Continuous monitoring and evaluation of these factors are essential for improving the health and well-being of the Belington community.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Belington, WV (26250) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While challenges exist, the community's commitment to improving access to care, embracing technology, and prioritizing mental health can lead to a healthier future. For a visual representation of healthcare resources and their distribution within the 26250 ZIP code, consider exploring CartoChrome maps.