26444, Tunnelton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26444, Tunnelton, West Virginia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.54 percent of the residents in 26444 has some form of health insurance. 43.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.36 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 26444 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 696 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26444. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 905 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 30 health care providers accessible to residents in 26444, Tunnelton, West Virginia.

The overall health landscape in Tunnelton, West Virginia, specifically within the ZIP code 26444, presents a complex picture. An "Overall Health Score" analysis, designed to assess the quality and accessibility of healthcare, reveals both strengths and weaknesses when considering the availability of primary care physicians and the broader health resources available to residents. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 26444 is a critical indicator. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, and Tunnelton is no exception. While precise, up-to-the-minute data is dynamic and hard to obtain, publicly available information, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, suggests a potential deficit. This means there may be fewer primary care physicians available per capita compared to more urban areas. Residents may face challenges in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatments. This scarcity can also contribute to increased wait times and a heavier workload for existing physicians, potentially impacting the quality of care they can provide.

Assessing standout practices requires evaluating several factors, including patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the use of advanced technologies. Identifying specific practices within 26444 that consistently receive high ratings and offer a comprehensive approach to primary care is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education. The presence of these high-quality practices is a positive sign, but their impact is limited if the overall physician supply is inadequate. The success of these practices depends on their ability to serve a large patient base and their willingness to collaborate with other healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption represents a potential solution to some of the access challenges in rural areas. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can reduce the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations that do not require a physical examination. The level of telemedicine adoption in 26444 is an important consideration. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer greater convenience and flexibility for patients. The availability of reliable internet access is a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives. Without adequate connectivity, telemedicine services are rendered ineffective.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is vital. The analysis must consider the presence of mental health professionals in the area, the accessibility of their services, and the integration of mental health care into primary care practices. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The overall health score is negatively affected by a lack of mental health resources.

The overall health score for 26444 is, therefore, a complex calculation. The potential for a low physician-to-patient ratio coupled with the challenges of rural healthcare access suggests a moderate score. The presence of quality practices and the adoption of telemedicine can improve the score. The availability of mental health resources will also influence the overall score.

The analysis must also consider the specific needs of the population in 26444. The demographics of the area, including age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases, must be factored into the assessment. The healthcare needs of an aging population, for example, may differ significantly from those of a younger population. Addressing the specific needs of the community is essential to improving the overall health score.

The impact of social determinants of health is crucial. Factors such as access to healthy food, safe housing, and transportation can significantly affect health outcomes. The analysis must consider these factors and their impact on the overall health score. Addressing these social determinants is essential to improving the health of the community.

The assessment of healthcare quality requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating the quality of care provided by physicians, the availability of specialists, and the overall patient experience. The use of patient satisfaction surveys and other quality metrics can provide valuable insights. The overall health score must reflect the quality of care available in the area.

The challenges of rural healthcare access are well documented. The lack of resources, the geographic isolation, and the limited access to specialists can all contribute to poorer health outcomes. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. The overall health score can only be improved by addressing these systemic issues.

The overall health score for 26444 is not static. It is a dynamic measure that can change over time. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The overall health score is a valuable tool for understanding the health landscape in Tunnelton and for developing strategies to improve the health of the community.

The data suggests that while there are committed healthcare providers in the area, the overall health score is likely hampered by physician shortages and the need for improved access to mental health resources. Telemedicine and the presence of standout practices offer some mitigation. The overall health score is a call to action.

CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 26444 and the surrounding areas. These maps can be used to identify areas with limited access to care, to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, and to track the impact of interventions. Visit CartoChrome maps today to explore and visualize the health data for your community.