26818, Fisher, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26818, Fisher, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26818 has some form of health insurance. 54.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.95 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 26818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 595 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26818, Fisher, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in 26818 and Primary Care in Fisher

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 26818, encompassing the area of Fisher, necessitates a nuanced understanding of various factors. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the accessibility of primary care. In Fisher, a town within 26818, this is a critical starting point. Assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of practicing physicians, their appointment scheduling practices, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. A limited number of primary care physicians, coupled with long wait times for appointments and restricted insurance acceptance, would significantly lower the health score. Conversely, a robust network of readily accessible primary care providers, offering same-day or next-day appointments and accepting a wide range of insurance, would contribute positively to the overall score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric for evaluating healthcare accessibility. Ideally, a low ratio, indicating a greater number of physicians per capita, translates to better access to care. In 26818, determining this ratio requires accurate data on the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and the total population. A high ratio might signal potential challenges, such as longer wait times, difficulty securing appointments, and potentially, less personalized care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare system. Public health data and state medical board information are essential for calculating this ratio accurately.

Identifying standout medical practices within 26818 contributes to a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape. These practices may excel in specific areas, such as patient satisfaction, preventative care, or chronic disease management. Analyzing patient reviews, examining the practice's accreditation status, and assessing its commitment to evidence-based medicine can help identify these exemplary providers. Practices that have embraced innovative technologies or offer specialized services, such as geriatric care or pediatric care, also merit consideration. These practices serve as beacons of quality and can positively influence the overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant shift in healthcare delivery. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas like Fisher. Evaluating the telemedicine adoption rate within 26818 involves examining the number of practices offering virtual consultations, the types of services offered remotely, and the ease of use of their telemedicine platforms. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow and offer convenient and accessible virtual care contribute positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being, and their availability and accessibility are critical factors in assessing the health score. This analysis requires evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the ZIP code. Assessing the availability of mental health services involves considering appointment wait times, the acceptance of insurance, and the availability of support groups and other community resources. A community with readily accessible mental health services, including crisis intervention and ongoing therapy, will receive a higher score.

The integration of these factors—primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources—allows for a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment for 26818 and Fisher. A high score indicates a robust healthcare system with readily accessible primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, exemplary medical practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A low score, conversely, suggests challenges in these areas, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes for the community.

This analysis highlights the complex interplay of factors that contribute to the overall health of a community. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective strategies to improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes. The ‘Overall Health Score’ is not a static measure but a dynamic assessment that can be used to track progress and identify areas for improvement. By continually monitoring and evaluating these factors, communities can work towards creating a healthier and more resilient population.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26818 and Fisher, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, offering a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare access and identifying areas of need.