26141, Creston, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26141, Creston, West Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.11 percent of the residents in 26141 has some form of health insurance. 56.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.67 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 26141 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26141. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 101 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 79 health care providers accessible to residents in 26141, Creston, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26141 and Primary Care Availability in Creston

The health of a community is inextricably linked to the availability and quality of its healthcare providers. This analysis focuses on the critical area of hypertension management within ZIP code 26141, specifically examining the practices and resources available to patients in Creston, West Virginia. We will assess the landscape of primary care, focusing on factors crucial for effective hypertension control, including physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice models, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state and identify areas for improvement in the fight against hypertension.

Creston, a small community within ZIP code 26141, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting often translates to limited access to specialized care and a potentially aging population, both of which can exacerbate the prevalence and management of hypertension. Therefore, the availability of primary care physicians is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of accessibility. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Assessing this ratio within 26141 is the first step in understanding the community's capacity to address hypertension effectively. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards provide the basis for this calculation, allowing us to estimate the number of physicians practicing within the ZIP code and compare it to the population size.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care hinges on the practices and approaches adopted by individual providers. Several factors contribute to superior hypertension management. A proactive approach, including regular blood pressure screenings, lifestyle counseling, and medication management, is essential. Practices that embrace patient education, empowering individuals to actively participate in their care, often see better outcomes. This includes providing clear information about the condition, its risks, and the importance of adherence to treatment plans. Furthermore, the use of evidence-based guidelines, such as those established by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, is crucial. Practices that consistently follow these guidelines are more likely to achieve optimal blood pressure control.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Creston. Its adoption among primary care providers in 26141 is a critical factor in our analysis. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and even remote monitoring of blood pressure. Practices that have embraced this technology can extend their reach, providing care to patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments. The availability of secure and user-friendly telemedicine platforms, along with adequate internet connectivity, is essential for successful implementation. We will investigate the prevalence of telemedicine within the practices serving Creston, assessing the types of services offered and the patient experience.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Hypertension is often linked to stress, anxiety, and depression, which can significantly impact a patient's ability to manage their condition. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is a crucial component of comprehensive hypertension management. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or strong partnerships with mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. We will examine the extent to which primary care providers in 26141 address the mental health needs of their patients, including the availability of screening tools, counseling services, and referral pathways.

Identifying standout practices within 26141 is essential for recognizing best practices and inspiring improvements across the community. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize innovative technologies, and integrate mental health resources should be highlighted. We will look for practices that have implemented patient education programs, actively monitor blood pressure control rates, and consistently achieve positive outcomes. These practices can serve as models for others, demonstrating the potential for excellence in hypertension management within the specific context of Creston and its surrounding areas.

The analysis will delve into the specific practices within ZIP code 26141, identifying their strengths and weaknesses. This involves gathering information from various sources, including publicly available data, practice websites, and patient reviews. We will assess each practice based on the factors outlined above, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. This comprehensive evaluation will provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Creston and identify areas where improvements are needed.

Addressing the challenges of hypertension management in Creston requires a multi-faceted approach. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and integrating mental health resources are all crucial steps. Furthermore, fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and patients is essential. This includes sharing best practices, providing patient education, and creating a supportive environment for individuals managing hypertension. The goal is to create a healthcare ecosystem that empowers patients to take control of their health and achieve optimal blood pressure control.

The findings of this analysis will be summarized in a comprehensive report, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 26141. This report will provide actionable recommendations for improving hypertension management, including strategies for increasing access to care, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and integrating mental health resources. The ultimate aim is to contribute to a healthier community by supporting the efforts of healthcare providers and empowering patients to live longer, healthier lives.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient demographics, explore the power of location intelligence with CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform allows you to visualize the data from this analysis, overlaying physician locations, population density, and other relevant factors to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Creston and beyond.