26814, Riverton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.72 percent of the residents in 26814 has some form of health insurance. 67.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.79 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 26814 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 123 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26814. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 147 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28 health care providers accessible to residents in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26814 and Primary Care Availability in Riverton

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 26814, encompassing the town of Riverton, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care physician availability, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The most immediate concern for Riverton residents is the availability of primary care physicians. This is a critical element in the health score. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals, leading to potential shortages. A low physician-to-patient ratio is a significant indicator of access to care. Ideally, the ratio should be favorable, allowing for adequate patient appointments and timely medical attention. A high ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, could lead to delayed diagnoses, longer wait times, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 26814 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments can provide valuable insights. The lower the ratio, the better the score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of existing practices are vital. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is important. These could be practices recognized for their patient satisfaction scores, their specialized services, or their innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Are there any practices that are consistently ranked highly by patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they accept a wide range of insurance plans? These factors contribute to the overall health score. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care and offer convenient access to services will significantly improve the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the health score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It can help bridge geographical barriers, making it easier for patients to access care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health services. The availability of telemedicine options within 26814, including the types of services offered and the ease of use, will positively influence the health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine and offer virtual appointments are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and modern healthcare practices.

Mental health resources are a significant component of the overall health score. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is crucial for the well-being of the community. Rural areas often face challenges in providing adequate mental health services. Assessing the availability of these resources within 26814 is essential. Are there local mental health clinics? Do primary care physicians offer mental health screenings or referrals? Are there telehealth options for mental health services? The presence of robust mental health support services will significantly improve the overall health score. A lack of adequate mental health resources will negatively impact the score.

Furthermore, the integration of these elements contributes to a holistic view. For example, a practice with a good physician-to-patient ratio that also offers telemedicine and mental health services will receive a higher overall health score than a practice with a favorable ratio but limited access to other crucial services. The assessment should also consider the demographics of the population served. Are there specific health needs or disparities within the community? Addressing these needs and disparities will further improve the health score.

The overall health score is not just a number; it’s a reflection of the community's access to and quality of healthcare. It is the culmination of the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score is a dynamic measure, influenced by various factors. Regularly updating the analysis is important.

The assessment should also consider the impact of external factors. The availability of transportation, the socioeconomic status of the population, and the presence of community health initiatives can all influence the overall health score. These factors can influence access to care and the overall health outcomes of the community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for doctors in ZIP Code 26814 and primary care availability in Riverton is a complex metric. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of several factors, including physician availability, the quality of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a healthier community, with better access to care and improved health outcomes. This assessment should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and the needs of the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26814 and beyond, including physician locations, practice details, and demographic data, explore the power of mapping. Visualize the data and make informed decisions.