26136, Big Bend, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.55 percent of the residents in 26136 has some form of health insurance. 58.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.19 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 26136 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26136. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 84 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101 health care providers accessible to residents in 26136, Big Bend, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26136 and Primary Care in Big Bend

This analysis evaluates the landscape of primary care and associated resources within ZIP code 26136, focusing on factors relevant to managing hypertension. This includes assessing physician availability, examining the adoption of telemedicine, and exploring the integration of mental health support, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals with hypertension. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment in Big Bend, West Virginia, and offer insights into areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of effective hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. In ZIP code 26136, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. Analyzing the number of practicing primary care physicians relative to the total population is essential. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient access, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability and potentially improved patient outcomes. This ratio needs to be compared to both the state and national averages to provide context.

Beyond simple physician counts, understanding the distribution of primary care practices is vital. Are practices clustered in specific areas within the ZIP code, leaving other areas underserved? Are there any "standout" practices that demonstrate exceptional patient care and innovative approaches to hypertension management? These practices might be recognized for their patient education programs, proactive outreach initiatives, or commitment to evidence-based guidelines. Identifying these standout practices can serve as a benchmark for other providers and contribute to best practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within ZIP code 26136 is a key factor in this analysis. The extent to which local primary care physicians utilize telemedicine for patient consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring is crucial. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, enabling patients to receive timely care without the need for extensive travel. Examining the types of telemedicine platforms in use, the frequency of their application, and patient satisfaction levels provides a comprehensive view of its impact.

Hypertension often coexists with mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. The integration of mental health resources within primary care settings is therefore paramount. This analysis assesses the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks. The presence of integrated behavioral health services can improve patient outcomes by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of hypertension.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of patient education materials and resources. These resources, which can include pamphlets, online educational tools, and group support programs, empower patients to actively participate in their own care. The availability of culturally sensitive materials, tailored to the specific needs of the local population, is also considered.

The evaluation also considers the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their impact on care coordination. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information among different healthcare providers, improving communication and reducing the risk of medical errors. The extent to which EHRs are used to track patient progress, monitor blood pressure readings, and automate medication reminders is a significant factor in assessing the quality of care.

The effectiveness of hypertension management also depends on the local healthcare system's responsiveness to patient needs. This includes factors such as appointment scheduling, wait times, and after-hours care availability. The analysis examines patient feedback through surveys and reviews to assess the overall patient experience.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology and nephrology, within a reasonable distance. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension may require referral to specialists for more advanced care. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists are crucial for ensuring timely and appropriate treatment.

Another crucial element is the availability of affordable medications. The analysis assesses the accessibility of generic and brand-name medications, as well as the availability of pharmacy services within the ZIP code. This includes the presence of pharmacies that offer medication counseling and adherence support programs.

The analysis also investigates the presence of community health initiatives focused on hypertension prevention and management. These initiatives can include health screenings, educational programs, and lifestyle modification support groups. The involvement of local hospitals, community centers, and other organizations in these initiatives is also assessed.

Finally, the analysis considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on hypertension management. This includes assessing the prevalence of poverty, food insecurity, and other social determinants of health that can influence patient outcomes. The availability of resources to address these factors, such as food banks and social services, is also considered.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26136 reveals a complex picture. While some areas may demonstrate strengths in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, or mental health integration, others may require improvement. Understanding the specific strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system is essential for developing targeted interventions to improve hypertension management and patient outcomes.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Big Bend and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to analyze physician distribution, access to care, and other relevant factors. Visit CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.