26259, Dailey, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26259, Dailey, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26259 has some form of health insurance. 92.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.10 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 26259 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 26259. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 378 health care providers accessible to residents in 26259, Dailey, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Dailey, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26259)

Dailey, West Virginia, nestled within ZIP code 26259, presents a unique challenge when assessing overall health. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" understanding for residents.

Dailey, like many rural communities, likely faces significant hurdles in healthcare access. The primary challenge is the potential scarcity of healthcare professionals, especially primary care physicians. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, difficulty establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care provider, and increased travel distances for medical care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

Accurately determining the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 26259 requires accessing specific, up-to-date data. This data is often compiled by state health departments, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and various medical associations. The national average physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial benchmark. If the ratio in 26259 significantly exceeds the national average, it indicates a potential shortage of physicians, thereby negatively impacting the "Overall Health Score." Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access.

Rural areas frequently experience physician shortages due to factors like lower salaries compared to urban areas, limited professional opportunities for spouses, and a perceived lack of amenities. These factors contribute to the difficulty in attracting and retaining physicians in Dailey.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The availability of primary care providers is the bedrock of the "Overall Health Score." This includes not just the number of physicians but also the types of services offered. Does the community have family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians? Are there walk-in clinics or urgent care facilities to address immediate medical needs? The presence of a federally qualified health center (FQHC) would be a significant positive factor, as these centers are designed to serve underserved populations.

The availability of after-hours care is another critical aspect. Limited access to care outside of standard business hours can force residents to seek emergency room services for conditions that could be addressed in a primary care setting, increasing healthcare costs and potentially leading to less effective treatment.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This assessment considers factors like patient satisfaction surveys, reviews, the use of electronic health records (EHRs), and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices that consistently receive positive patient feedback, demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement, and actively embrace technological advancements like EHRs would positively influence the "Overall Health Score."

These practices often prioritize patient education, preventative care, and chronic disease management. They may also have strong relationships with specialists and hospitals, ensuring continuity of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has the potential to revolutionize healthcare access in rural areas like Dailey. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, through video conferencing or phone calls, can overcome geographical barriers and provide timely medical advice. The "Overall Health Score" is positively influenced by the extent of telemedicine adoption by local practices.

The availability of reliable internet access is a crucial prerequisite for telemedicine adoption. If internet connectivity is limited in the area, it will significantly hinder the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and online patient portals would contribute to a higher score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is a critical component of overall health, and access to mental health services is essential. The "Overall Health Score" is heavily influenced by the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and therapists.

Rural areas often face shortages of mental health providers. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and partnerships with local schools and community organizations would be positive indicators. The ability to access mental health services is crucial for addressing issues like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, which can significantly impact overall health.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Dailey, West Virginia (ZIP code 26259) is likely to be impacted by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to this score. A comprehensive assessment would require detailed data analysis, including information from local healthcare providers, public health agencies, and patient feedback. The final score would provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Dailey, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dailey and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points.