26296, Whitmer, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26296, Whitmer, West Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26296 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 26296 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26296. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 79 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 70 health care providers accessible to residents in 26296, Whitmer, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26296 and Whitmer, WV

Evaluating the overall health score for the population served by doctors in ZIP code 26296, encompassing the community of Whitmer, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates examining various factors, from physician availability to the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis will delve into these aspects, providing a comprehensive understanding of the health landscape in this specific area.

One of the most fundamental metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio provides a direct measure of access to care. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, often translates to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see a physician, and potentially, a decline in preventative care. Data specific to ZIP code 26296 is crucial. Public health records and local healthcare provider directories are necessary to calculate this ratio. Furthermore, the type of physician matters. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly critical, as they often serve as the gateway to the healthcare system, coordinating care and providing preventative services. The number of specialists, such as cardiologists or neurologists, is also relevant, although their impact is often secondary to the accessibility of primary care.

Assessing primary care availability in Whitmer involves more than just the raw number of PCPs. The distribution of these physicians within the community is important. Are the PCPs located centrally, making them accessible to all residents, or are they concentrated in one area, potentially creating access barriers for those living further away? The acceptance of new patients by these practices is also a crucial factor. A practice that is not accepting new patients, even if it is physically nearby, does not contribute to the overall availability of care.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Patient reviews, available through online platforms and local surveys, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, the quality of care, and the overall patient experience. Accreditation status, such as those from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), can also be an indicator of quality. These accreditations often signify adherence to specific standards of care and a commitment to continuous improvement. The adoption of innovative healthcare practices, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can also distinguish a practice. EHRs streamline record-keeping and improve communication, while patient portals empower patients to manage their health information and communicate with their providers more effectively.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key area for evaluation. Telemedicine, which encompasses the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Whitmer. Assessing the extent to which local physicians offer telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, is critical. The types of telemedicine services offered, whether they are for routine check-ups, specialist consultations, or chronic disease management, should be considered. The availability of reliable internet access in the community is also a significant factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, should be assessed. This includes the number of mental health providers in the area, their specialties, and their acceptance of new patients. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator. This integrated approach can improve access to mental health care by reducing the stigma associated with seeking help and streamlining the referral process. The presence of community-based mental health programs and support groups is also beneficial.

Furthermore, the availability of other healthcare services, such as dental care, vision care, and pharmacy services, contributes to the overall health score. Access to these services is essential for comprehensive healthcare. The presence of local pharmacies and their ability to dispense medications efficiently is also important. The availability of transportation services to medical appointments is another factor to consider, particularly for individuals who may not have access to personal vehicles.

Analyzing the health of a community like Whitmer also requires considering the social determinants of health. These are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. They include socioeconomic status, education level, access to healthy food, housing quality, and environmental factors. Addressing these social determinants is crucial for improving overall health.

Finally, the overall health score should reflect the health outcomes of the community. This involves examining key health indicators, such as life expectancy, infant mortality rates, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. These indicators provide a direct measure of the health status of the population. Data from public health agencies and local healthcare providers is necessary to gather this information.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for ZIP code 26296 and Whitmer is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive analysis of physician availability, the adoption of modern healthcare practices, the availability of mental health resources, and the health outcomes of the community. This analysis should be ongoing, as healthcare needs and the healthcare landscape are constantly evolving.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape of Whitmer and surrounding areas, including physician locations, demographics, and health outcomes, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.