26292, Thomas, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26292, Thomas, West Virginia is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.89 percent of the residents in 26292 has some form of health insurance. 54.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.61 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 26292 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 87 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26292. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 87 health care providers accessible to residents in 26292, Thomas, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Thomas, WV (ZIP Code 26292)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 26292, encompassing the town of Thomas, West Virginia, reveals a complex interplay of factors impacting resident well-being. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive health score assessment. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the current state of healthcare access and identify areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Thomas, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical concern. Due to the town’s rural location and population size, the physician-to-patient ratio likely deviates significantly from national averages. This means there are potentially fewer physicians to serve a larger number of residents. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, a higher likelihood of delayed diagnoses and treatment. The scarcity of primary care physicians in this area presents a significant challenge to overall health outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a smaller number of physicians per capita, often translates to limited access to care. While precise data specific to 26292 is difficult to obtain without granular local surveys, the broader context of rural West Virginia suggests a likely deficit. This shortage impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and comprehensive medical attention. The consequences can range from difficulty scheduling routine checkups to challenges in managing chronic conditions.

Identifying standout practices is essential to understanding the strengths within the local healthcare system. While a comprehensive list is beyond the scope of this analysis, it is crucial to investigate the reputation and services offered by existing practices. Are there any clinics or individual physicians known for their commitment to patient care, their specialized services, or their responsiveness to community needs? Researching patient reviews, understanding the types of insurance accepted, and assessing the range of services provided (e.g., chronic disease management, preventative care, women's health) are all important steps in evaluating the quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by local providers is a critical factor in the overall health score. Does the community have access to virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing residents to connect with specialists and receive care without the need for extensive travel. Assessing the availability and utilization of telemedicine services is vital to understanding the healthcare infrastructure.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a key indicator of community health. Does the area have access to mental health services? Are there resources for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? The ability to receive timely and effective mental health care is critical for preventing crises and promoting overall wellness. The lack of these resources can have a detrimental impact on the community.

Considering all these factors, the overall health score for Thomas, WV (ZIP Code 26292) is likely to be moderate, potentially trending towards the lower end of the spectrum. The challenges associated with physician availability, particularly in primary care, and the potential limitations in mental health resources, create significant hurdles to optimal health outcomes. The limited adoption of telemedicine, while improving, further exacerbates these challenges.

The success of any community health improvement plan depends on data-driven insights. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Thomas, WV, and the surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you analyze healthcare resources, identify gaps in access, and develop targeted interventions to improve community health outcomes.