26257, Coalton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26257, Coalton, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.22 percent of the residents in 26257 has some form of health insurance. 50.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.32 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 26257 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 218 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26257. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 163 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 521 health care providers accessible to residents in 26257, Coalton, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Coalton, WV (ZIP Code 26257)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Coalton, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26257) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This granular examination provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for the region, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The cornerstone of any community's health is the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Coalton, the availability of these crucial healthcare providers is a critical factor. Analyzing this element involves more than just counting the number of doctors; it requires assessing appointment wait times, the acceptance of new patients, and the breadth of services offered. A low supply of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased reliance on emergency room services, and a general decline in preventative care, all negatively impacting the overall health score.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a crucial metric. The ideal ratio, reflecting sufficient access to care, varies depending on the population's demographics and health needs. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the existing healthcare system, leading to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. Conversely, a lower ratio, suggesting a greater availability of physicians, can contribute to a higher overall health score, allowing for more personalized and proactive healthcare. The specific ratio in Coalton, and its comparison to state and national averages, is a key determinant of the overall health assessment.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code offers valuable insight. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, employing innovative approaches, and achieving superior health outcomes. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction ratings, the adoption of advanced technologies, and the practice's commitment to community outreach. The presence of such practices can significantly boost the overall health score, providing a model for other healthcare providers and offering residents access to high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in the modern healthcare landscape. Its presence in Coalton can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can reduce travel time, facilitate remote consultations, and improve the management of chronic conditions. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the level of patient adoption are all important factors in determining its impact on the overall health score. The success of telemedicine often hinges on factors like internet access and digital literacy within the community.

Mental health resources represent a crucial component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is a significant factor. Analyzing the presence of these resources, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., cost, wait times) is critical. A lack of mental health resources can significantly depress the overall health score, leading to untreated mental health conditions, increased substance abuse, and a decline in overall quality of life. The integration of mental health services with primary care is a particularly beneficial aspect to consider.

Beyond the direct availability of healthcare, other factors can influence the overall health score. These include the prevalence of chronic diseases, the rates of preventable hospitalizations, and the socioeconomic characteristics of the community. A high prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease, can negatively impact the overall health score, while a low rate of preventable hospitalizations suggests effective preventative care. Socioeconomic factors, such as income levels and educational attainment, can also play a significant role, as they often influence access to care and health outcomes.

The analysis of these factors, combined, allows for a nuanced assessment of the overall health score for Coalton. This score is not simply a numerical value but a reflection of the community's health infrastructure, the quality of care available, and the overall well-being of its residents. A high score indicates a robust healthcare system, readily accessible care, and a community that prioritizes health and wellness. A low score, conversely, highlights areas for improvement, indicating a need for increased resources, improved access to care, and a greater focus on preventative health measures.

The final 'Overall Health Score' for Coalton, WV (ZIP Code 26257) would be determined by weighting the factors discussed above. For instance, primary care availability and physician-to-patient ratios might carry a higher weight due to their fundamental impact on access to care. The presence of standout practices and telemedicine adoption would contribute positively, while the availability of mental health resources would be weighted heavily. The final score would then be categorized to provide a clear understanding of the health landscape in the area.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, the socioeconomic factors influencing health outcomes, and the identification of potential areas for improvement, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive visualizations provide a powerful tool for understanding the complex interplay of factors that shape the health of a community.