26562, Burton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26562, Burton, West Virginia is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.99 percent of the residents in 26562 has some form of health insurance. 52.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.08 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 26562 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 255 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26562. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 122 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 532 health care providers accessible to residents in 26562, Burton, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26562 & Primary Care Availability in Burton

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 26562, which encompasses Burton, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted examination. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” assessment, painting a picture of the healthcare environment for residents.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the health outcomes of a population. In Burton, the proximity to Morgantown and the broader Monongalia County healthcare infrastructure is a significant factor. However, even with this proximity, assessing the actual number of PCPs actively serving the residents of 26562 is crucial. This includes considering the types of practices (family medicine, internal medicine, etc.), their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their capacity to take on new patients. Data on patient appointment wait times, as well as the geographical distribution of practices within the ZIP code, is also vital for a full picture.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. The World Health Organization recommends a ratio of one physician per 1,000 people. While this is a global benchmark, the specific needs of a rural area like Burton must be considered. Factors like the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic status of the residents all influence the ideal ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a potentially more accessible healthcare system.

Identifying “standout practices” involves evaluating the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative healthcare models. This includes looking at practices that are recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care, their use of electronic health records (EHRs), and their participation in quality improvement initiatives. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or recognition by local health organizations can be indicators of excellence. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in 26562 can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals is essential. The ease of use of these technologies and the level of support provided to patients are also critical factors. Telemedicine can help bridge geographical barriers and improve the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a significant factor. The availability of these services within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable commuting distance, is vital. This includes assessing the types of mental health services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), the acceptance of insurance, and the availability of crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services with primary care practices can also improve access and coordination of care.

The “Overall Health Score” for 26562, based on this analysis, will depend on the specific data collected. A higher score would indicate a healthcare environment with ample primary care availability, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources. A lower score would reflect the opposite. The score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, as healthcare landscapes evolve.

To determine the final “Overall Health Score”, detailed data collection is necessary. This includes:

* **Number of PCPs:** The exact count of practicing PCPs in 26562, including their specialties and practice settings.
* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** Calculating the ratio based on the population of 26562.
* **Practice Quality Indicators:** Evaluating practices based on accreditation, patient satisfaction scores, and participation in quality improvement programs.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals.
* **Mental Health Resource Availability:** Determining the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Examining the acceptance of various insurance plans by practices.
* **Appointment Wait Times:** Gathering data on average wait times for appointments.
* **Geographical Distribution:** Mapping the locations of practices to assess accessibility for residents.

The data collected will be analyzed, and weighted based on their relative importance to overall health outcomes. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and primary care availability would likely be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption.

The resulting “Overall Health Score” will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare environment in 26562. It can be used by residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively. The score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26562 and beyond, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you analyze healthcare access, identify underserved areas, and make data-driven decisions.