26339, Center Point, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26339, Center Point, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26339 has some form of health insurance. 33.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.72 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 26339 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26339. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 12 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 540 health care providers accessible to residents in 26339, Center Point, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Center Point, WV (ZIP Code 26339)

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 26339, encompassing Center Point, WV, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, explores physician-to-patient ratios, examines the adoption of telemedicine, and assesses the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' evaluation, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. Determining the number of practicing physicians, specifically those accepting new patients, is crucial. Research indicates a potential shortage of primary care physicians in rural areas like Center Point. This lack of easy access can lead to delayed diagnoses, worsening health conditions, and increased reliance on emergency room services, impacting the overall health score negatively. Further investigation into the types of primary care practices available – family medicine, internal medicine, and general practice – is necessary to understand the scope of services offered.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, suggests increased wait times for appointments and a potential strain on existing resources. National averages provide a benchmark; comparing the physician-to-patient ratio in 26339 to both state and national figures will illuminate the level of accessibility residents experience. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, along with information from the American Medical Association, would be key sources for this analysis.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is also important. These practices often demonstrate innovative approaches to patient care, incorporating best practices in preventative medicine, chronic disease management, and patient communication. Factors to consider include patient reviews, accreditations, and the availability of specialized services, such as on-site lab testing or chronic disease management programs. Researching the practices' affiliations with larger healthcare systems or hospitals can also provide insights into their resources and capabilities.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly significant, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to healthcare. The presence of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve the overall health score. Assessing the availability of telemedicine options from local primary care practices, as well as the accessibility of these services for patients with limited internet access, is crucial. Furthermore, understanding the types of telemedicine services offered – general consultations, specialist referrals, or mental health support – is vital.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, directly impacts the well-being of the community. Assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the acceptance of insurance plans is essential. Additionally, the presence of community mental health centers or partnerships with local organizations can indicate a strong support system for mental health needs.

To calculate the 'Overall Health Score', a weighted scoring system would be applied. Each of the factors mentioned above – primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. Data from various sources, including the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the American Medical Association, and publicly available practice information, would be collected and analyzed. The final score would then reflect the overall health landscape of the area.

The analysis of primary care availability in 26339 suggests a potential need for improvement. The physician-to-patient ratio likely falls below the national average, indicating potential challenges in accessing timely care. While specific information on standout practices is needed, the adoption of telemedicine appears to be a critical factor for improving accessibility. The availability of mental health resources requires careful examination to determine if the needs of the community are being met.

To gain a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape in Center Point, WV, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the power of spatial data analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing for a deeper understanding of physician locations, patient demographics, and the availability of services. This visual approach can help identify areas of need and inform strategic planning for healthcare providers and policymakers.