25535, Lavalette, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 25535, Lavalette, West Virginia is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.02 percent of the residents in 25535 has some form of health insurance. 24.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.93 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 25535 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 954 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25535. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 311 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,090 health care providers accessible to residents in 25535, Lavalette, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Lavalette, WV (ZIP Code 25535)

The pursuit of optimal hypertension management within Lavalette, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25535), requires a multifaceted approach, examining not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care delivered, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Hypertension Score’ assessment, considering these critical factors and offering insights into the current landscape.

The foundation of effective hypertension control lies in accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Lavalette is paramount. While precise figures fluctuate, the rural nature of the area likely presents a challenge. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, compromised preventative care. This scarcity can exacerbate existing health disparities and hinder early detection and management of hypertension. The analysis needs to consider the surrounding areas and the potential for patients to travel for care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This involves evaluating the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension management, including regular blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle counseling, and appropriate medication prescriptions. Are local practices adhering to the latest recommendations from organizations like the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology? This assessment requires scrutiny of patient records, which is beyond the scope of this general analysis, but is crucial for a true assessment.

Identifying standout practices within Lavalette is vital. These practices may be characterized by their proactive approach to hypertension management. They might implement robust patient education programs, utilize electronic health records effectively for tracking and follow-up, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. These practices could serve as models for others, fostering a culture of excellence in hypertension control. The analysis would need to assess practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially, conduct site visits to identify and highlight these leading providers.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving access to care, particularly in rural areas like Lavalette. The adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving patient convenience. The analysis should evaluate the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered, and patient satisfaction with these virtual interactions.

Hypertension is often intertwined with mental health. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is, therefore, crucial. Does Lavalette have access to mental health professionals? Are there any collaborative efforts between primary care physicians and mental health providers? The analysis needs to assess the availability of these resources and the extent to which they are integrated into hypertension management strategies.

The ‘Hypertension Score’ for Lavalette must also consider the availability of resources beyond direct medical care. This includes access to healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity, and community-based programs promoting cardiovascular health. The analysis should evaluate the presence of farmers' markets, walking trails, and community health initiatives that support lifestyle modifications, a cornerstone of hypertension management.

The geographical distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is also a key consideration. Are practices evenly distributed, or are certain areas underserved? This spatial analysis is essential for identifying potential gaps in access to care and informing strategies for improving service delivery.

The overall ‘Hypertension Score’ for Lavalette, WV, would be a composite metric, reflecting the factors discussed. It would be a dynamic measure, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. A low score would indicate significant challenges in hypertension management, while a high score would signify a robust system of care.

The analysis should also consider the socio-economic characteristics of the population. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all act as barriers to care. These factors must be taken into account when interpreting the ‘Hypertension Score’ and developing strategies for improvement.

In conclusion, the ‘Hypertension Score’ for Lavalette, WV (ZIP Code 25535), is a complex assessment that goes beyond simply counting physicians. It requires a deep dive into the quality of care, the adoption of innovative technologies, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of community-based support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local landscape and to identify opportunities for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Lavalette, WV, and to explore the spatial relationships between these resources and the population, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. This tool can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of primary care, the location of community health initiatives, and other factors that contribute to the overall ‘Hypertension Score’.