26575, Hundred, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26575, Hundred, West Virginia is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.00 percent of the residents in 26575 has some form of health insurance. 55.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.81 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 26575 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 76 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26575. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 208 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 42 health care providers accessible to residents in 26575, Hundred, West Virginia.

The assessment of overall health in Hundred, West Virginia, specifically focusing on primary care availability within the 26575 ZIP code, reveals a complex landscape. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in an overall health score. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare environment and highlight areas for potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Hundred presents a significant challenge. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of primary care physicians, and this is likely the case here. The exact ratio is difficult to ascertain without comprehensive data, but anecdotal evidence and national trends suggest a higher-than-average patient load per doctor. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially limited access to preventative care. Addressing this imbalance requires a multi-pronged approach, including incentives for physicians to practice in rural areas, expansion of telehealth services, and the utilization of nurse practitioners and physician assistants to augment the primary care workforce.

Identifying standout practices within the 26575 ZIP code is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. These practices often serve as models for best practices and can provide insights into successful healthcare delivery in a rural setting. Research would need to identify specific practices and evaluate them based on factors such as patient satisfaction, quality of care metrics (e.g., chronic disease management outcomes), and the use of innovative technologies. The presence of a well-regarded practice can positively impact the overall health score by providing a high standard of care and potentially attracting patients from surrounding areas.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving healthcare access in rural communities. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is especially important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists who may not be readily available in Hundred. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the technological infrastructure available to support telehealth. A higher degree of telemedicine adoption would positively impact the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health, and their availability in Hundred requires careful scrutiny. Rural areas often face challenges in providing adequate mental health services, including a shortage of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. The analysis would need to assess the availability of mental health professionals, the presence of mental health support groups, and the accessibility of crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is also an important consideration. A robust mental health infrastructure would significantly improve the overall health score.

The overall health score for primary care availability in Hundred, West Virginia, 26575, is likely to be moderate, reflecting the challenges inherent in rural healthcare delivery. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of mental health resources, and the level of telemedicine adoption are the key factors influencing this score. While standout practices may exist, they are unlikely to fully compensate for the systemic challenges.

Improving the overall health score requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders. Local healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations must collaborate to address the identified shortcomings. This includes initiatives to attract and retain physicians, expand telemedicine services, increase access to mental health resources, and promote preventative care.

The analysis also needs to consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited educational opportunities can all negatively impact health. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for improving the overall health of the community.

The evaluation of specific practices would involve examining their patient care protocols, their use of technology, and their involvement in community outreach programs. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and actively engage with the community are more likely to achieve positive health outcomes.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor to consider. EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate data sharing, and enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery. Practices that have successfully implemented EHRs are better positioned to provide high-quality care.

The analysis would also need to consider the availability of specialty care. While primary care is the focus, access to specialists is essential for managing complex health conditions. The proximity of specialists, the availability of referral pathways, and the ability of primary care physicians to coordinate care with specialists are all important considerations.

The role of community health workers (CHWs) in rural healthcare settings is also significant. CHWs can provide culturally competent care, connect patients with resources, and help navigate the healthcare system. The presence of a strong CHW program can positively impact the overall health score.

The overall health score is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Monitoring key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health service utilization, is essential for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement.

The findings of this analysis can be used to inform policy decisions, guide resource allocation, and promote community health initiatives. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, stakeholders can work together to create a healthier community.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and mental health facilities, and to visualize the data in a dynamic and interactive way, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare access and inform strategic planning.