24871, Pageton, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 24871, Pageton, West Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.42 percent of the residents in 24871 has some form of health insurance. 88.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 27.09 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 24871 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24871. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 108 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 108 health care providers accessible to residents in 24871, Pageton, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Pageton, WV (ZIP Code 24871)

This analysis delves into the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP code 24871, encompassing Pageton, West Virginia. It assesses the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care delivered, and the resources available to patients, ultimately culminating in a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the overall health of the community concerning this prevalent condition. This score is not a single number, but rather a comprehensive assessment based on several key factors.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Pageton is a critical indicator. Determining this ratio requires data on the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and the total population. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can significantly hinder access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and inadequate treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability and, potentially, improved patient outcomes. However, merely counting doctors is insufficient. The analysis must also consider the capacity of these physicians. Are they accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for appointments? These factors contribute to the practical accessibility of care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' adherence to established clinical guidelines for hypertension management. Do physicians routinely measure blood pressure accurately? Are they prescribing appropriate medications and monitoring their effectiveness? Are they educating patients on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which are crucial components of hypertension control? The analysis should examine the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate data tracking and communication between providers. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively often demonstrate improved patient outcomes.

Standout practices within the ZIP code deserve special recognition. Identifying those that consistently achieve positive patient outcomes, as measured by blood pressure control rates, is crucial. These practices might employ innovative strategies, such as dedicated hypertension clinics, patient education programs, or proactive outreach initiatives. Their success stories can serve as models for other providers in the area, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. These practices may also have a higher ratio of certified healthcare professionals, such as registered nurses or certified medical assistants, who can assist in patient education and monitoring.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital element. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Pageton. The analysis should investigate the extent to which local primary care physicians utilize telemedicine for hypertension management. This includes virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more convenient and timely care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to hypertension management. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within the community is a critical factor. The analysis should assess the proximity of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors. Are these services accessible and affordable? Do primary care physicians have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Integration of mental health care into primary care settings can improve patient outcomes.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology consultations and pharmacy services, is also important. Easy access to these services streamlines the patient journey and ensures that patients receive comprehensive care. The analysis should assess the proximity of cardiology practices and pharmacies within the ZIP code or nearby areas. Are pharmacies equipped to provide medication counseling and blood pressure monitoring services?

Patient education and support groups play a significant role in empowering individuals to manage their hypertension effectively. The analysis should investigate the availability of educational materials, such as pamphlets, online resources, and group classes. Are there support groups for individuals with hypertension in the community? These resources can provide patients with the knowledge and support they need to make lifestyle changes and adhere to their medication regimens.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that impact hypertension management in Pageton. Poverty, lack of access to healthy foods, and limited health literacy can all contribute to poor outcomes. The analysis should examine the prevalence of these factors within the community and assess the availability of resources to address them, such as food banks, community health centers, and health education programs.

The "Hypertension Score" for Pageton (ZIP code 24871) is ultimately a composite assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialized services, the availability of patient education and support, and the impact of socioeconomic factors. This score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic reflection of the community's ability to effectively manage hypertension. Regular reassessment of this score is crucial to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the distribution of these critical resources, including the locations of primary care physicians, pharmacies, and mental health providers, and to understand the geographic accessibility of care within Pageton and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, enabling a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in hypertension management within this community.