24888, Thorpe, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 24888, Thorpe, West Virginia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24888 has some form of health insurance. 68.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.81 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 24888 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24888. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 32 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 97 health care providers accessible to residents in 24888, Thorpe, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24888 & Thorpe Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning hypertension management, within ZIP Code 24888 and the availability of primary care in Thorpe, requires a nuanced approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, providing a framework for understanding the landscape and identifying areas for improvement. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial for effective hypertension care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 24888 requires accessing datasets from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards. This data, when coupled with local population demographics, will reveal the true access situation.

Beyond simple numbers, understanding the distribution of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code is vital. Are they concentrated in specific areas, creating "healthcare deserts" for certain residents? Are there enough PCPs to adequately serve the needs of the aging population, who are particularly susceptible to hypertension? The location of clinics and their accessibility via public transportation or other means are also crucial factors.

Examining the adoption of innovative practices within the area provides insight into the quality of care. Are physicians utilizing evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, such as those from the American Heart Association or the American College of Cardiology? Do they employ patient-centered approaches, involving patients in shared decision-making about their treatment plans? Practices that actively monitor patient adherence to medication and lifestyle recommendations, using tools like remote blood pressure monitoring, are likely to achieve better outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas like Thorpe. Its adoption rate among physicians in 24888 is a significant factor. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote patient monitoring) and their integration with existing healthcare systems will help determine their effectiveness.

The connection between mental health and hypertension is well-established. Stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, and untreated mental health conditions can hinder adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within 24888, and their integration with primary care practices, is therefore critical. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Are primary care physicians screening patients for mental health issues? Are they able to readily refer patients to appropriate mental health services?

Standout practices within the ZIP code, if any, should be highlighted. These practices may be recognized for their patient-centered approach, their use of technology, or their commitment to community outreach. Identifying these "best practices" can provide valuable lessons for other providers in the area. Researching patient satisfaction surveys, reviewing online ratings, and consulting with healthcare professionals can help identify these exemplary practices.

The availability of resources like patient education materials, support groups, and community health programs also contributes to effective hypertension management. These resources empower patients to take an active role in their care, improving their understanding of the condition and promoting adherence to treatment plans. Assessing the presence and accessibility of these resources is an important part of the analysis.

The analysis of primary care availability in Thorpe requires a different lens. While the same indicators (physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources) are relevant, the focus shifts to the specific geographic area of Thorpe. Determining the distance residents must travel to access primary care is crucial. Are there enough PCPs within a reasonable radius? Are there transportation barriers that limit access?

Evaluating the integration of technology within primary care practices in Thorpe is also important. Does the practice have an electronic health record system? Does it offer online portals for patients to access their medical information and communicate with their providers? The use of technology can improve efficiency and enhance the patient experience.

The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, within or near Thorpe is also a key consideration. These specialists are often involved in the management of complex cases of hypertension. The ease of access to these specialists is an important factor in the overall quality of care.

Overall, the assessment of hypertension management in 24888 and Thorpe requires a comprehensive approach. It must consider various factors, from physician-to-patient ratios and telemedicine adoption to the availability of mental health resources and patient education materials. The goal is to identify areas where care is strong and areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and areas with high rates of hypertension, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps allow you to explore the data visually, identifying patterns and trends that might not be apparent through traditional data analysis. CartoChrome maps can help you pinpoint areas with limited access to care and identify opportunities to improve healthcare delivery.