26554, Fairmont, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26554, Fairmont, West Virginia is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.86 percent of the residents in 26554 has some form of health insurance. 41.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.40 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 26554 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,820 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 49 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26554. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,976 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,857 health care providers accessible to residents in 26554, Fairmont, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Fairmont, WV (ZIP Code 26554)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 26554, encompassing Fairmont, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the raw numbers of physicians but also the quality of care, access to specialized services, and the overall health infrastructure. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, incorporating key metrics and observations.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. While precise, constantly updated figures are challenging to obtain publicly, we can infer a general picture. Rural areas, like Fairmont, often face a shortage of primary care physicians. This translates to a higher patient load per doctor, potentially impacting appointment availability and the time dedicated to each patient. This scarcity is a significant challenge, influencing the "Overall Health Score" negatively.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of specialists is crucial. Access to specialists like cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists is vital for comprehensive care. The presence or absence of these specialists within the immediate area, or the ease of access to them in nearby cities like Morgantown, directly impacts the health outcomes of the population. Limited access to specialized care significantly lowers the score.

Standout practices, however, can mitigate some of the challenges. Identifying practices known for their commitment to patient-centered care, innovative approaches, and positive patient outcomes is essential. These practices often serve as beacons of quality, offering a higher level of service and potentially attracting patients from a wider area. The existence of such practices is a positive factor, boosting the "Overall Health Score". Their ability to navigate the constraints of a rural setting is particularly noteworthy.

Telemedicine adoption represents a critical area of evaluation. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to overcome geographical barriers, providing access to healthcare services for those in remote areas. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is a key indicator of their commitment to accessibility and patient convenience. High adoption rates positively influence the "Overall Health Score".

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health support services is crucial. Assessing the capacity of local mental health providers to meet the needs of the community, including the availability of crisis intervention services and support groups, is essential. Limited access to mental health services significantly lowers the "Overall Health Score".

Primary care availability is, of course, the cornerstone of this analysis. The ease with which residents can secure appointments with primary care physicians is a critical determinant of the "Overall Health Score". Factors such as wait times, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of after-hours care contribute to this assessment. Long wait times and limited access to primary care significantly decrease the score.

The quality of the healthcare infrastructure also plays a role. The presence of a well-equipped hospital, access to diagnostic imaging services, and the availability of emergency medical services are all essential components of a robust healthcare system. The quality of the local hospital and its ability to provide comprehensive care are critical factors.

The overall health of the population in Fairmont, WV (ZIP code 26554) is influenced by several factors. The socioeconomic status of the population, including factors like income levels, educational attainment, and access to healthy food options, also affects health outcomes. These factors, while not directly related to healthcare delivery, are important to consider when assessing the overall health landscape.

The "Overall Health Score" for Fairmont, WV (ZIP code 26554) is likely to be moderate. While the presence of dedicated healthcare providers and a local hospital offers a foundation of care, the challenges of a rural setting, including physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and potential socioeconomic disparities, weigh heavily. The extent to which local practices are embracing innovative approaches like telemedicine and focusing on patient-centered care will be crucial in improving the score. Mental health resources and primary care accessibility are key areas needing improvement.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several steps are necessary. Attracting and retaining physicians, particularly primary care physicians and specialists, is a top priority. Expanding telemedicine capabilities and promoting the use of technology to improve patient access and convenience is also essential. Investing in mental health resources and ensuring that these services are readily available to the community is crucial. Addressing socioeconomic disparities and promoting healthy lifestyle choices are also important.

In conclusion, evaluating the health landscape in Fairmont, WV (ZIP code 26554) is a complex process. The "Overall Health Score" is a reflection of the interplay between healthcare resources, access to care, and the overall health of the community. While challenges exist, opportunities for improvement are also present.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in Fairmont, WV (ZIP code 26554), consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, including healthcare resources, population demographics, and health outcomes. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the health landscape and identify areas for improvement.