26812, Mathias, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26812, Mathias, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.97 percent of the residents in 26812 has some form of health insurance. 70.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.58 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 26812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 466 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26812. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 442 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26812, Mathias, West Virginia.

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of Mathias, West Virginia, specifically focusing on primary care availability and the performance of doctors practicing within the 26812 ZIP code. Assessing health requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the number of physicians but also the quality of care, access to resources, and integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the health environment in this rural community.

One of the fundamental metrics in evaluating healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio indicates the number of physicians available to serve a given population. In a rural area like Mathias, a low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly impact access to care, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limiting the ability of residents to receive timely medical attention. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 26812 ZIP code and surrounding areas would be crucial for a comprehensive assessment. Public health agencies and local healthcare organizations often track and report on these ratios, providing valuable insights into the availability of primary care physicians.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by physicians is paramount. This includes factors such as the experience and training of the doctors, the range of services offered, and the patient satisfaction levels. Identifying standout practices within the 26812 ZIP code requires researching individual physician profiles, patient reviews, and the accreditation status of medical facilities. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize evidence-based medicine, and consistently achieve positive health outcomes would naturally rank higher in an overall health assessment. Information on these factors can be found through various sources, including online physician directories, hospital websites, and potentially, local health department reports.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can bridge geographical barriers and provide patients with access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. Examining the extent to which doctors in the 26812 ZIP code utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered via telehealth, and patient satisfaction with these services is essential. Telemedicine adoption can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with chronic conditions or those who have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments. Investigating the availability of telemedicine services, including both video consultations and remote monitoring technologies, is crucial.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. Access to mental health services in rural areas is often limited, making it a critical area of evaluation. Assessing the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and other mental health professionals within the 26812 ZIP code is vital. This includes investigating whether these resources are accessible through local healthcare practices, hospitals, or community organizations. Furthermore, understanding the availability of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and substance abuse treatment programs is essential. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, where patients can receive both physical and mental healthcare in a coordinated manner, is a particularly beneficial model.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP Code 26812 and primary care availability in Mathias is complex and depends on a variety of factors. A comprehensive assessment would require gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Evaluating these factors in combination would provide a more complete picture of the health landscape in this rural community. The assessment would be further enhanced by considering the demographics of the population, including age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. These factors can influence the demand for healthcare services and the specific needs of the community.

The accessibility of specialized healthcare services, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and oncology, should also be considered. If patients in the 26812 ZIP code need to travel long distances to access these services, it can negatively impact their health outcomes. Assessing the availability of these specialists, either locally or within a reasonable travel distance, is important for a comprehensive health assessment. Collaboration between primary care physicians and specialists is also crucial for coordinating patient care and ensuring that patients receive the appropriate treatment.

Another important consideration is the level of health literacy within the community. Health literacy refers to an individual's ability to understand and use health information to make informed decisions. If a community has low health literacy levels, it can be challenging for residents to navigate the healthcare system, understand their medical conditions, and follow treatment plans. Assessing the health literacy levels within the 26812 ZIP code and identifying any initiatives to improve health literacy is essential. These initiatives could include educational programs, community outreach efforts, and the provision of easy-to-understand health information.

The integration of technology into healthcare is another critical area to consider. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs), which can improve the efficiency and accuracy of patient care, as well as the use of patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their doctors, and schedule appointments online. Assessing the extent to which doctors in the 26812 ZIP code utilize these technologies can provide insights into the efficiency and accessibility of care.

Finally, evaluating the overall health score requires a holistic approach, considering not only the availability and quality of medical services but also the social determinants of health. These determinants include factors such as housing, food security, education, and access to transportation. These factors can significantly impact an individual's health outcomes. Understanding the social determinants of health within the 26812 ZIP code can provide a more complete picture of the health landscape and inform efforts to improve health outcomes.

For a visual representation of the health landscape in Mathias and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visualization tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and the needs of the community.