26349, Galloway, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26349, Galloway, West Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.68 percent of the residents in 26349 has some form of health insurance. 73.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 24.39 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 26349 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 50 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26349. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,628 health care providers accessible to residents in 26349, Galloway, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Galloway, WV (ZIP Code 26349)

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape within Galloway, West Virginia (ZIP code 26349), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and delve into the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for residents, considering both the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Galloway, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Rural areas often struggle with access to care, and this analysis will consider those factors.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care**

One of the most crucial indicators of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reflects the number of primary care physicians available to serve the population. In rural settings like Galloway, this ratio is often less favorable compared to urban areas. A lower ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and increased stress on existing healthcare providers. Accurate data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 26349 is essential for a precise assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) would be invaluable. If the ratio is unfavorable, it suggests a need for strategies to improve access, such as recruiting new physicians or expanding existing practices.

Beyond the raw numbers, it's important to consider the distribution of physicians. Are they concentrated in a single location, or are they spread out across the community? The geographical distribution significantly impacts access, especially for individuals with limited transportation options or those living in remote areas.

**Standout Practices: Identifying Quality and Innovation**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including patient satisfaction, quality of care metrics, and the adoption of innovative healthcare models. Practices that consistently receive high marks for patient satisfaction, as reflected in online reviews and patient surveys, are typically strong contenders. These practices often prioritize patient communication, empathy, and a patient-centered approach to care.

Furthermore, assessing quality of care metrics, such as rates of preventative screenings (e.g., mammograms, colonoscopies), chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes control), and immunization rates, can reveal practices that excel in providing comprehensive and effective care. The adoption of innovative healthcare models, such as patient-centered medical homes or accountable care organizations, can also be a positive indicator. These models often emphasize care coordination, proactive management of chronic conditions, and a focus on improving overall health outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It can overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care without having to travel long distances. The level of telemedicine adoption within ZIP code 26349 is a crucial factor in the overall health score.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering services such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to enhance access to care and improve patient convenience. The availability of reliable internet access is a critical prerequisite for telemedicine adoption. Communities with limited broadband infrastructure may face challenges in fully realizing the benefits of telemedicine. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the technological infrastructure supporting these services will provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and the availability of mental health resources is a significant factor in the overall health score. The prevalence of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, can be significant in rural areas. Access to mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is essential for addressing these needs.

The analysis should assess the availability of mental health providers within ZIP code 26349 and the surrounding areas. This includes evaluating the number of providers, their specializations, and the types of services they offer. Additionally, it's important to consider the accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage, wait times, and the availability of telehealth options for mental health care. The presence of community-based mental health programs and support services can also significantly improve the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score: Synthesis and Conclusion**

Calculating an "Overall Health Score" requires synthesizing all the factors discussed above. It involves assigning weights to each factor based on its relative importance and then aggregating the scores to arrive at a final rating. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and access to care might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific context of the community.

The final score should reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Galloway. A high score would indicate good access to care, a strong network of primary care providers, the availability of mental health resources, and the adoption of innovative healthcare models. A low score would suggest challenges in these areas, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve the health of the community.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Galloway, WV. It is important to remember that this is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and regular assessments are needed to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

**Enhance Your Understanding with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Galloway, WV (ZIP code 26349), explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, patient demographics, access to care challenges, and the distribution of mental health resources. This visual approach can reveal patterns and insights that might be missed in a text-based analysis. Visit CartoChrome today to see how they can help you visualize and understand the health of your community.