24935, Forest Hill, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 24935, Forest Hill, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24935 has some form of health insurance. 69.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.57 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 24935 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 57 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24935. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 162 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 90 health care providers accessible to residents in 24935, Forest Hill, West Virginia.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Forest Hill, WV (ZIP Code 24935)**

Forest Hill, West Virginia, a rural community nestled within the 24935 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly regarding the management of hypertension. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective hypertension control, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment in Forest Hill and to highlight potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. In Forest Hill, primary care availability is a critical determinant of the community's overall health. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The score will consider the proximity of healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals, and the ease of access for residents, especially those with mobility challenges or transportation limitations.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a crucial metric for assessing the workload of healthcare providers. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to reduced appointment times, less personalized care, and challenges in effectively managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis will examine the physician-to-patient ratio within 24935, comparing it to regional and national averages. The "Hypertension Score" will be adjusted based on this ratio, with lower ratios receiving a higher score.

Standout practices, those demonstrating exceptional performance in hypertension management, will significantly impact the "Hypertension Score." This evaluation will consider factors such as patient outcomes (blood pressure control rates), adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the use of innovative approaches to patient care. Practices employing strategies like patient education programs, medication management support, and regular follow-up appointments will be recognized. The analysis will identify and highlight any practices in Forest Hill that are excelling in hypertension management.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas where access to care can be a significant challenge. The "Hypertension Score" will evaluate the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by primary care providers in Forest Hill. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and the use of digital tools for patient education and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to improving access to care and patient convenience.

The critical link between mental health and hypertension management will also be assessed. Chronic stress and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can significantly impact blood pressure control. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the availability of mental health resources within Forest Hill, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, will be viewed favorably.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed above. The score will be presented on a scale, reflecting the overall quality of hypertension management in Forest Hill. A higher score will indicate a more favorable healthcare environment, with better access to primary care, a lower physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

The primary care availability in Forest Hill is impacted by the geographic challenges of the area. The rural nature of the community can limit the number of physicians practicing within the ZIP code. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the availability of PCPs in the neighboring areas, as residents may be required to travel some distance to access care. This will include an assessment of public transportation options and the availability of transportation assistance programs for those with limited mobility.

The adoption of health information technology (HIT) is another factor that will impact the "Hypertension Score." Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and other HIT tools can improve care coordination, facilitate communication between providers, and enhance patient engagement. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which practices in Forest Hill are utilizing HIT to manage hypertension.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and nephrology, will also be considered. While primary care is the cornerstone of hypertension management, access to specialists is crucial for patients with complex conditions or those who require advanced interventions. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the availability of these specialized services within Forest Hill and the surrounding areas.

The socioeconomic factors of the community also play a role. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the prevalence of poverty, unemployment, and other social determinants of health that can impact access to care and the ability to manage hypertension effectively. This will include an assessment of the availability of resources such as food banks, housing assistance programs, and other social services.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a dynamic measure, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. The analysis will be updated periodically to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and other factors. The goal is to provide a continuous assessment of the healthcare environment in Forest Hill and to identify areas for improvement.

The assessment will also consider the patient perspective. Patient satisfaction surveys and feedback mechanisms will be used to evaluate the quality of care and the patient experience. This will include an assessment of communication between providers and patients, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the overall satisfaction with the healthcare services received.

The "Hypertension Score" will be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents of Forest Hill. It will provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare environment, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. The analysis will be used to inform decision-making, guide resource allocation, and improve the quality of hypertension management in the community.

The integration of community health workers (CHWs) can be a valuable asset. CHWs can bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, providing education, support, and assistance with navigating the healthcare system. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the availability of CHWs in Forest Hill and their role in hypertension management.

The analysis will also explore the use of community-based programs, such as health fairs and educational workshops, to promote hypertension awareness and prevention. The "Hypertension Score" will assess the availability of these programs and their effectiveness in reaching the community.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Forest Hill, WV (ZIP Code 24935) reflects a complex interplay of factors. The score is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the management of hypertension. The ongoing goal is to identify opportunities for improvement and to promote better health outcomes for the residents of Forest Hill.

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