26260, Davis, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26260, Davis, West Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.49 percent of the residents in 26260 has some form of health insurance. 44.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.02 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 26260 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26260. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 343 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 88 health care providers accessible to residents in 26260, Davis, West Virginia.

The overall health landscape within ZIP Code 26260, encompassing the town of Davis, West Virginia, presents a complex picture. Evaluating the health of a community requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the presence of healthcare providers but also their accessibility, the quality of care provided, and the availability of supportive resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment, factoring in key elements such as physician-to-patient ratios, the strengths of specific practices, the utilization of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to understand the health ecosystem and identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased pressure on existing providers. Data from the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and other sources suggests a potential challenge in this regard for rural areas like Davis. Specific, up-to-date physician counts are essential for accurate calculation, but the general trend often shows a scarcity of primary care physicians compared to the needs of the population. This scarcity can be compounded by factors like geographic isolation and the attractiveness of urban areas for medical professionals.

Within Davis, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of overall health. Primary care serves as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing essential services like routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. The success of a community’s healthcare system hinges on the strength of its primary care infrastructure. Assessing the availability requires looking at the number of practicing primary care physicians, their patient load, and their ability to accept new patients. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants can help mitigate the shortage of physicians, but their effectiveness depends on their integration into the healthcare system and their scope of practice.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires careful consideration of several factors. Patient reviews, the quality of care indicators (such as rates of chronic disease management), and the adoption of innovative practices are all relevant. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize electronic health records effectively, and provide comprehensive services typically perform better. For example, a practice with a strong focus on preventative care, offering services like regular screenings and health education, can significantly improve the health outcomes of its patients. The presence of specialized services, such as diabetes education or behavioral health integration, can also be a positive indicator.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can overcome geographical barriers, reduce travel time and costs, and provide access to specialists who might not be locally available. The adoption rate of telemedicine within Davis is an important factor in the overall health score. Assessing this requires looking at the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the level of patient and provider acceptance. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their workflow are likely to provide better access to care.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the mental health needs of the community. Assessing the availability of these resources involves looking at the number of mental health providers, their accessibility (e.g., wait times for appointments), and the range of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management). The integration of mental health services into primary care practices can improve access and reduce stigma. The presence of community-based mental health programs and support groups can also strengthen the mental health infrastructure.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for the Davis area is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While specific data is needed to provide a definitive score, the analysis reveals potential challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of primary care. The strengths of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of robust mental health resources can positively influence the overall health landscape. A comprehensive assessment requires ongoing monitoring of these factors and a commitment to addressing any identified gaps in care. Further investigation into specific practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health resource availability will refine the understanding of the health of the community.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Davis and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and resource availability, helping you to visualize the health ecosystem and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.