26138, Brohard, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.42 percent of the residents in 26138 has some form of health insurance. 70.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.97 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 26138 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26138. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 111 health care providers accessible to residents in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia.

**Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26138 and Primary Care Availability in Brohard**

This analysis examines the landscape of hypertension management within ZIP Code 26138, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources in Brohard, West Virginia. The goal is to provide a nuanced 'Hypertension Score' assessment, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of effective hypertension control.

The sheer number of physicians alone is insufficient to gauge the quality of hypertension care. A more holistic approach is needed.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. In Brohard and the surrounding areas of 26138, the ratio directly impacts access to care. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less thorough approach to hypertension management. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups, proactive interventions, and improved patient outcomes. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP Code is crucial. This involves identifying all practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area and comparing that number to the estimated population. Public health data, local hospital records, and state medical board registries are valuable resources for gathering this data.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are important. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have a dedicated focus on chronic disease management, including hypertension? Practices that prioritize patient education, lifestyle counseling, and medication adherence programs often achieve better results. Identifying standout practices requires examining patient reviews, assessing the availability of specialized services (e.g., registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators), and evaluating their participation in quality improvement initiatives related to hypertension.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital. In rural areas like Brohard, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and remote monitoring capabilities. Practices that embrace telemedicine for hypertension management can offer virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management support. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. The availability of telehealth platforms, the training of staff in telemedicine protocols, and patient access to necessary technology are all key factors in assessing the effectiveness of telemedicine adoption.

Mental health is often overlooked in hypertension management, but it is a critical component. Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact blood pressure control. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. This includes having on-site mental health professionals, offering referrals to therapists or psychiatrists, and providing resources for stress management and coping skills. Assessing the availability of these resources is an essential part of the 'Hypertension Score' analysis.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services is important. Does the practice have an on-site laboratory for blood work? Are there pharmacies nearby that offer medication counseling and support? The ease of access to these services can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their hypertension effectively.

The quality of care also relies on the adoption of evidence-based guidelines. Are the physicians adhering to the latest recommendations for hypertension diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and monitor progress? Practices that prioritize evidence-based care and utilize technology to support their efforts are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

The 'Hypertension Score' itself would be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed. It could be a numerical score, a letter grade, or a more descriptive assessment. The score should reflect the overall quality of hypertension care available within the ZIP Code, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the use of evidence-based guidelines.

Analyzing the availability of primary care in Brohard involves a specific focus on the community. This includes identifying the primary care practices located within the Brohard area, assessing their capacity to serve the local population, and evaluating their integration with other healthcare providers in the region. The presence of community health centers, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), and other safety-net providers is particularly relevant, as they often play a crucial role in providing care to underserved populations.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 26138 and Brohard would not be static. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the adoption of new technologies and approaches to care. This ongoing assessment is crucial for identifying areas of strength and weakness and for informing efforts to improve hypertension management in the community.

The complexity of hypertension management necessitates a comprehensive approach. This analysis attempts to capture the key elements that contribute to effective care, from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of mental health services. By understanding these factors, we can gain a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape in 26138 and Brohard and work towards improving outcomes for individuals living with hypertension.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of 26138 and Brohard, including a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping technology can provide valuable insights, aiding in the assessment of hypertension care accessibility and quality.