26287, Parsons, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26287, Parsons, West Virginia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.18 percent of the residents in 26287 has some form of health insurance. 48.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.74 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 26287 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 555 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26287. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 579 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 491 health care providers accessible to residents in 26287, Parsons, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Parsons, WV (ZIP Code 26287)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Parsons, West Virginia (ZIP code 26287) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, access to primary care, the adoption of modern healthcare practices, and the availability of mental health resources. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the health ecosystem within this specific geographic area.

Parsons, a small city in Tucker County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting often translates to limited resources compared to more urban environments. The overall health score for this area is influenced by several key factors.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This figure reflects the availability of doctors relative to the population. In rural areas, this ratio is often lower than the national average, indicating a potential shortage of physicians. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 26287 requires accessing specific data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau. The number of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers must be considered, along with the total population of the area. A lower ratio suggests that residents may face difficulties in securing timely appointments and accessing necessary medical care.

**Primary Care Availability in Parsons:**

Access to primary care is the cornerstone of a healthy community. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for healthcare needs, providing preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. Assessing primary care availability involves identifying the number of PCPs practicing within Parsons and the surrounding areas. Factors like the acceptance of new patients, appointment wait times, and the range of services offered are crucial. A limited number of PCPs, long wait times, and a lack of comprehensive services negatively impact the overall health score.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative healthcare approaches. This requires examining patient reviews, assessing the use of electronic health records (EHRs), and considering the practice's commitment to patient education and community outreach. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and actively engage with the community are likely to receive higher ratings. These practices act as vital resources for the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in Parsons can significantly impact the overall health score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring technologies, and the integration of telehealth services into existing care models. Practices that embrace telemedicine are better equipped to serve a wider patient population.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling services, is crucial for the health of the community. Assessing mental health resources involves identifying 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. Factors like insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and the presence of crisis intervention services are also important. A lack of mental health resources can significantly lower the overall health score.

**Specific Considerations:**

Given the rural nature of Parsons, transportation barriers may affect access to healthcare. The availability of public transportation or ride-sharing services could influence patient access to medical appointments. The demographics of the population, including age and socioeconomic status, also play a role. Older adults and individuals with lower incomes may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. The presence of community health initiatives, such as health fairs or wellness programs, can improve the overall health score.

**Data Collection and Analysis:**

Gathering the necessary data for a comprehensive analysis requires multiple sources. This includes publicly available information from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and the U.S. Census Bureau. Additional information can be obtained through direct contact with healthcare providers in the area and by reviewing patient reviews and online resources. Data analysis should involve calculating physician-to-patient ratios, assessing primary care availability, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources.

**Overall Health Score Determination:**

The overall health score is determined by weighting the various factors discussed. Physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, and mental health resources are given significant weight due to their direct impact on access to care. Telemedicine adoption and the presence of standout practices are given secondary weight, as they can enhance the quality and accessibility of care. The final score provides a comprehensive assessment of the health landscape in Parsons, West Virginia.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the health landscape of Parsons, West Virginia, reveals both challenges and opportunities. The rural setting presents limitations in physician availability and access to specialized services. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the presence of dedicated healthcare providers can mitigate these challenges. Addressing the availability of mental health resources and promoting community health initiatives are critical for improving the overall health score. A detailed analysis, incorporating the factors discussed, provides valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents.

**Call to Action:**

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