26270, Harman, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26270, Harman, West Virginia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.63 percent of the residents in 26270 has some form of health insurance. 69.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.72 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 26270 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26270. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 141 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 426 health care providers accessible to residents in 26270, Harman, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Harman, WV (ZIP Code 26270)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the Harman, West Virginia area (ZIP Code 26270), focusing on primary care availability and the broader healthcare landscape. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. Due to the rural nature of this region, healthcare access presents unique challenges, and this analysis aims to highlight both strengths and areas needing improvement.

The cornerstone of any community's health is the availability of primary care physicians. Assessing this in Harman requires understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. Given the limited population density of the area, the ratio is likely a critical factor. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) indicates potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. This can exacerbate existing health problems and contribute to poorer overall health outcomes. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and other publicly available sources would be required to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 26270. However, it's reasonable to assume that the ratio is likely less favorable compared to more urban or suburban areas.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. While the exact number and types of healthcare providers in Harman are limited, any practice demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care deserves recognition. This includes practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, or have a strong focus on chronic disease management, which is especially important given the prevalence of certain health conditions in rural populations. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives or collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated care also deserve commendation. The presence of a local clinic or medical office would be vital to the community's health.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving healthcare access in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, overcoming geographical barriers and reducing the need for long travel times to receive care. This is particularly important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists who may not be readily available in Harman. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration requires evaluating the availability of telehealth services offered by local providers. This includes the types of services available (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology used, and the accessibility of these services to patients, including those with limited internet access.

Mental health resources are another critical aspect of the overall health score. Access to mental healthcare is often limited in rural communities, and Harman is likely no exception. The analysis must consider the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. This includes assessing the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of individual and group therapy, and the availability of psychiatric services. Furthermore, it's essential to evaluate the integration of mental health services with primary care, as this can improve early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. The existence of support groups, community outreach programs, and crisis intervention services is also a factor.

The overall health score for Harman, WV (ZIP Code 26270) is likely to be influenced by several factors. The limited physician-to-patient ratio, the need for expanded telemedicine adoption, and the potential scarcity of mental health resources are likely to present challenges. However, the dedication of existing practices and the potential for community-based initiatives to improve healthcare access can positively impact the score.

To improve the health score, several strategies could be employed. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians and specialists is essential. This could involve offering financial incentives, providing loan repayment programs, and creating a supportive practice environment. Expanding telemedicine capabilities, including providing access to reliable internet connectivity, is another crucial step. Investing in mental health services, including increasing the number of mental health professionals and integrating mental health care into primary care settings, is also vital. Promoting preventative care through community health programs and educational initiatives can also contribute to improved health outcomes.

The healthcare landscape in Harman is likely dynamic. The ongoing efforts of healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies can significantly influence the overall health score. Regular monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health service utilization, is essential to track progress and identify areas needing further attention. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents is crucial to developing and implementing effective strategies to improve healthcare access and promote better health outcomes.

The overall health score in Harman is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of various factors. While challenges exist, the community's resilience and the dedication of healthcare professionals offer hope for positive change. A comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape is essential to guide future efforts and ensure that residents have access to the care they need.

To gain a more visual and comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harman, WV (ZIP Code 26270), including the location of healthcare providers, access to resources, and potential areas for improvement, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable tool for visualizing and analyzing health data, supporting informed decision-making, and promoting better health outcomes for the community.