26838, Milam, West Virginia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 26838, Milam, West Virginia is 0 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26838 has some form of health insurance. 46.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 26838 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 47 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26838. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 192 health care providers accessible to residents in 26838, Milam, West Virginia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26838 & Primary Care Availability in Milam

Analyzing the overall health landscape within a specific ZIP code and a county requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care, access to specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis will delve into the health resources available in ZIP code 26838 and the primary care availability within Milam County, offering an 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

**ZIP Code 26838: A Microcosm of Healthcare Access**

ZIP code 26838, as a localized area, provides a snapshot of healthcare accessibility. The first critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, ideally, should be low, indicating a greater availability of physicians for the population. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Census Bureau and state medical boards, can be used to determine the number of licensed physicians practicing within the ZIP code. This number is then compared to the estimated population of 26838. A high ratio, such as one physician per 2,000 or more residents, could indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and a reduced ability to receive timely medical attention.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves assessing the reputation of medical practices within the ZIP code. Online review platforms, such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews, can provide insights into patient satisfaction, physician expertise, and the overall quality of care. Analyzing these reviews, looking for common themes such as wait times, bedside manner, and the thoroughness of examinations, will paint a picture of the patient experience. Practices with consistently positive reviews, particularly those highlighting patient-centered care and effective communication, should be considered standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, offering patients remote access to healthcare services. Practices in 26838 that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online appointment scheduling, are likely to provide greater convenience and accessibility, especially for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or who live in rural areas.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are essential to overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the ZIP code is crucial. This involves identifying the number of mental health practices, their specialties, and whether they accept insurance. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and partnerships with local community organizations also contributes to the overall health score. Areas with limited mental health resources may face challenges in addressing the growing mental health needs of the population.

**Primary Care Availability in Milam County: A Broader Perspective**

Milam County, encompassing a larger geographical area than a single ZIP code, requires a broader assessment of primary care availability. The physician-to-patient ratio for the entire county is a key indicator. State health departments and the American Medical Association (AMA) are reliable sources for this data. A low physician-to-patient ratio in Milam County, relative to state or national averages, could signal a shortage of primary care physicians. This shortage can lead to reduced access to preventative care, potentially resulting in delayed diagnoses and increased healthcare costs in the long run.

The distribution of primary care physicians within Milam County is also important. Are physicians concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural communities underserved? Assessing the geographic distribution of practices, using mapping tools, can reveal healthcare deserts where access to primary care is limited. This information can help identify areas that require additional healthcare resources.

The types of primary care services offered are important. Do practices offer a full range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and acute care? The availability of specialized services, such as women's health, pediatric care, and geriatric care, is also a factor. Practices that offer a comprehensive range of services are more likely to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the county's population.

The integration of technology plays a significant role in primary care availability. Electronic health records (EHRs) allow for better coordination of care, improved communication between physicians, and enhanced patient data management. Practices that utilize EHRs are likely to provide more efficient and effective care. Furthermore, the adoption of patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their physicians online, can improve patient engagement and satisfaction.

**Scoring and Conclusion**

Based on the factors discussed, an 'Overall Health Score' can be assigned to both ZIP code 26838 and Milam County. This score would be a composite of the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score could be represented on a numerical scale or using a qualitative rating system, such as "Excellent," "Good," "Fair," or "Poor."

For ZIP code 26838, a high score would indicate a low physician-to-patient ratio, a high concentration of reputable practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. For Milam County, a high score would signify an adequate physician-to-patient ratio, equitable distribution of primary care services, a wide range of services offered, and the integration of technology.

This analysis underscores the importance of data-driven decision-making in healthcare. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in specific areas is crucial for improving access to care, enhancing the quality of care, and promoting the overall health and well-being of the population.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, analyze physician-to-patient ratios, and identify areas with limited access to care, explore the power of interactive mapping. **Contact CartoChrome maps today to learn how we can help you transform complex healthcare data into actionable insights, enabling you to make informed decisions and improve healthcare outcomes.**