26289, Red Creek, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26289, Red Creek, West Virginia is 0 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26289 has some form of health insurance. 65.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.12 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 26289 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26289. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 437 health care providers accessible to residents in 26289, Red Creek, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Red Creek, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26289)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 26289, encompassing the town of Red Creek, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors beyond the simple presence of doctors, delving into physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of available primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive perspective allows for a more nuanced "Overall Health Score" assessment, providing a clearer picture of the health needs and resources available within this rural community.

The initial assessment reveals a potential challenge: Red Creek is a small, geographically isolated community. This isolation often translates into limited healthcare access. A critical starting point is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas generally face a shortage of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for specialist consultations, and ultimately, reduced access to preventative care. Investigating the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 26289 is paramount. Public health data, combined with information from state medical boards and local hospitals, will provide a baseline understanding of this crucial metric.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Primary care serves as the cornerstone of a healthy community, providing preventative services, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist care. The availability of comprehensive primary care in Red Creek involves evaluating the types of services offered by local practices. Do they provide routine checkups, vaccinations, and chronic disease management? Are they accepting new patients? Are they equipped to handle a range of medical needs, or do patients frequently need to travel outside the community for specialized care? The presence of a well-equipped and accessible primary care network significantly impacts the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices within Red Creek is crucial. This involves examining factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the overall patient experience. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing electronic health records effectively, and offering extended hours or weekend appointments, can be considered exemplary. These practices can serve as models for other providers and contribute significantly to the overall health of the community.

Telemedicine adoption represents a critical component of healthcare access in rural areas like Red Creek. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to specialists. The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, directly impacts the overall health score. Assessing the adoption rate among local practices, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and patient satisfaction with these services provides a valuable insight into the community's ability to leverage technology to overcome geographical barriers.

Mental health resources are equally important. Mental health is inextricably linked to physical health, and the availability of mental health services is a critical indicator of community well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within Red Creek is essential. Furthermore, evaluating the accessibility of these services, including insurance acceptance, wait times, and the availability of crisis intervention services, is crucial. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, promoting a holistic approach to patient care, can significantly improve the overall health score.

The economic health of the community also impacts health outcomes. Factors such as employment rates, income levels, and access to affordable housing can influence health behaviors and access to care. A community with a strong economic foundation is more likely to support a robust healthcare system. Assessing the socioeconomic characteristics of Red Creek, including poverty rates and insurance coverage, provides valuable context for understanding the health challenges faced by the community.

Furthermore, the presence of community health initiatives, such as health education programs, disease prevention campaigns, and support groups, contributes to a higher overall health score. These initiatives empower individuals to take control of their health and promote a culture of wellness within the community. Investigating the existence and effectiveness of such programs is an important aspect of the analysis.

Analyzing the data gathered from these various sources will allow for a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for Red Creek (ZIP code 26289). This score will reflect the community's strengths and weaknesses in healthcare access, quality, and affordability. The analysis will identify areas for improvement and highlight opportunities for positive change.

This detailed assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and socioeconomic factors, provides a more complete picture of the health landscape in Red Creek. This comprehensive approach allows for a more accurate and meaningful "Overall Health Score" assessment, which can then be used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately improve the health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Red Creek, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for a dynamic and insightful view of the community's health resources, providing valuable context for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing Red Creek.