26372, Horner, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26372, Horner, West Virginia is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.38 percent of the residents in 26372 has some form of health insurance. 28.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.65 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 26372 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 218 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26372. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 121 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 356 health care providers accessible to residents in 26372, Horner, West Virginia.

The health landscape of Horner, West Virginia, as reflected by the availability and quality of primary care physicians within and serving ZIP code 26372, presents a complex picture. Assessing an “Overall Health Score” requires considering multiple factors, from physician density to the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis delves into these elements, providing a nuanced understanding of the community’s access to and quality of primary care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, Horner, being a rural community, likely faces a challenge common to such areas: a lower density of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for residents, and a potential strain on existing healthcare providers. Accurate data on the precise ratio is crucial for a baseline understanding of the community's access to care. Publicly available resources, such as those from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), would be essential for obtaining this information.

Identifying standout practices requires examining several key indicators. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, and the adoption of innovative healthcare models. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, as evidenced by positive patient reviews, accreditation by reputable organizations, and a focus on preventative medicine, would likely score higher. The presence of extended hours, weekend availability, and same-day appointment options can also contribute to a practice's overall score, particularly in a community where access to care can be geographically limited.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in evaluating the health score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals significantly enhances access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or living in remote areas. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine technologies demonstrate a forward-thinking approach and a commitment to improving patient convenience and access. The integration of telemedicine can also help to address the physician shortage by allowing doctors to see more patients and extend their reach beyond the physical confines of their offices.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is a critical factor in assessing the community's health. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or establishing referral networks with mental health specialists, would significantly enhance the overall health score. Addressing mental health needs alongside physical health concerns promotes a holistic approach to patient care.

Evaluating the accessibility of prescription medications is also relevant. The proximity of pharmacies, the availability of medication delivery services, and the presence of programs to assist with medication costs all contribute to the ease with which residents can obtain necessary medications. These factors can directly impact patient adherence to treatment plans and, consequently, their overall health outcomes.

Beyond the direct provision of care, the community's health score is also influenced by broader factors. Public health initiatives, such as those focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and community wellness, play a crucial role. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations to address social determinants of health, such as poverty, food insecurity, and lack of transportation, can also positively impact the overall health score.

A comprehensive assessment of the health score would also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the primary care physicians in 26372. Factors such as the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic status of residents can all influence healthcare needs and resource allocation. Understanding these demographic factors is essential for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community.

Data collection and analysis are vital to creating an accurate health score. This requires gathering information from various sources, including healthcare providers, patient surveys, public health agencies, and community organizations. Analyzing this data involves using statistical methods to identify trends, patterns, and disparities in healthcare access and quality. The development of a robust data-driven approach is necessary for informing healthcare policy and improving health outcomes in Horner.

The overall health score for primary care availability in Horner, West Virginia, and the surrounding ZIP code 26372, is likely to be impacted by the rural nature of the area. While the exact score depends on the detailed data collection and analysis, the assessment would likely highlight the importance of addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health services into primary care practices. Furthermore, it would underscore the need for community-wide initiatives to improve access to care, promote healthy lifestyles, and address social determinants of health. The health score is a dynamic measure, and regular reassessment is crucial to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, pharmacy locations, and the demographics of the population served, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you identify areas with limited access to care, visualize patient populations, and make data-driven decisions to improve healthcare delivery in Horner and the surrounding areas.