26437, Smithfield, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26437, Smithfield, West Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.34 percent of the residents in 26437 has some form of health insurance. 25.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.64 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 26437 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26437. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 65 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 334 health care providers accessible to residents in 26437, Smithfield, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Smithfield, WV (ZIP Code 26437)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Smithfield, West Virginia, encompassing ZIP code 26437, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement within the community.

Smithfield, a small town nestled within the rolling hills of West Virginia, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. Rural communities often grapple with physician shortages and limited resources compared to their urban counterparts. Therefore, a careful examination of the factors influencing health outcomes in this specific locale is essential.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

One of the most critical indicators of community health is the availability of primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio in Smithfield is likely a significant factor in the overall health score. Rural areas often experience a lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 26437 is crucial. Public health agencies and local healthcare providers would be the primary sources for this information. A low ratio would negatively impact the health score.

The geographical distribution of primary care practices within Smithfield is also important. Are practices concentrated in one area, making access difficult for residents in more remote locations? The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers can help mitigate the impact of a low physician-to-patient ratio by providing affordable care to underserved populations. The existence and accessibility of such facilities would positively influence the health score.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Quality:**

Identifying any standout primary care practices within Smithfield is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in patient care, offer specialized services, or utilize innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the provision of comprehensive care, including preventative services and chronic disease management.

Practices that have achieved recognition for quality, such as those affiliated with larger healthcare systems or accredited by reputable organizations, would contribute positively to the overall health score. The availability of specialized services, such as diabetes education or geriatric care, would also be a significant advantage.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge the healthcare access gap in rural areas like Smithfield. The ability to consult with physicians remotely, receive prescriptions electronically, and access health information online can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 26437 needs evaluation. Are physicians offering virtual appointments? Are they utilizing remote monitoring technologies? The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine. High telemedicine adoption rates, coupled with robust internet infrastructure, would enhance the health score.

**Mental Health Resources and Accessibility:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health services in Smithfield are essential considerations. Rural areas often face challenges in providing adequate mental healthcare, including a shortage of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors.

Assessing the presence of mental health providers, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors (LPCs), and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), within the community is vital. Are there mental health clinics or support groups available? Do primary care physicians offer integrated mental health services?

The availability of resources for substance use disorders, including treatment and support groups, is also important. The health score will be negatively impacted by a scarcity of mental health resources and a lack of integration with primary care. Conversely, a robust mental health infrastructure would significantly improve the score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment and Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Smithfield, WV (ZIP code 26437) would be determined by weighing the factors discussed above. A comprehensive assessment would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialized services, minimal telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a higher physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, robust telemedicine infrastructure, and comprehensive mental health services would positively influence the score.

The final score would reflect the overall health landscape of Smithfield, providing a valuable snapshot of the community's strengths and weaknesses in healthcare access and delivery. This analysis serves as a starting point for further investigation and action.

To gain a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Smithfield and surrounding areas, consider utilizing the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more nuanced and data-driven assessment of the community's health.