26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.78 percent of the residents in 26143 has some form of health insurance. 49.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.84 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 26143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 812 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26143. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 812 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,962 health care providers accessible to residents in 26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Elizabeth, WV (ZIP Code 26143)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Elizabeth, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26143) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly concerning hypertension management. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians, their practices, and the resources available to patients in managing this prevalent condition. We'll assess a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" by considering factors influencing a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care.

The foundation of hypertension management lies in accessible primary care. In Elizabeth, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face shortages. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, creates significant challenges. Patients may experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. This scarcity also strains existing resources, impacting the ability of doctors to provide comprehensive care, including regular check-ups and lifestyle counseling, crucial elements of hypertension control.

Standout practices are those that proactively address these challenges. A practice earning a high Hypertension Score would demonstrate a commitment to early detection and management. This could involve employing dedicated nurses or medical assistants specializing in hypertension education and monitoring. They might implement standardized protocols for blood pressure screening and follow-up care, ensuring consistent and evidence-based treatment. Electronic health records (EHRs) are essential for tracking patient data, allowing for proactive identification of at-risk individuals and the ability to monitor the effectiveness of interventions.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. In a rural setting, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and providing education on lifestyle modifications. A practice utilizing telemedicine effectively can significantly improve patient access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. This can also free up in-office appointments for patients needing more intensive care.

The connection between hypertension and mental health is increasingly recognized. Chronic stress and anxiety can elevate blood pressure, making mental health resources an integral part of comprehensive hypertension management. A practice with a high Hypertension Score would ideally offer or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, including therapists and psychiatrists. Integrating mental health support into the care plan can address the psychological factors contributing to hypertension and improve patient adherence to treatment. This may also include offering stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness training or relaxation exercises.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources plays a significant role. This includes access to affordable medications, healthy food options, and exercise facilities. A practice actively collaborating with local pharmacies, food banks, and community centers demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care. This also involves educating patients about these resources and assisting them in accessing them.

The Hypertension Score also assesses the practice's commitment to patient education. Providing patients with clear, concise information about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications is paramount. This can involve offering educational materials, group classes, or individual counseling sessions. The ability of the practice to communicate effectively with patients and empower them to take control of their health directly impacts the success of hypertension management.

The quality of the practice's staff is also vital. A well-trained and compassionate team can significantly enhance the patient experience. This includes physicians, nurses, medical assistants, and administrative staff. A practice that prioritizes staff training and development and fosters a positive work environment is more likely to attract and retain skilled professionals, ultimately benefiting patient care.

Analyzing the specific practices in Elizabeth (ZIP Code 26143) involves a detailed investigation. This includes reviewing practice websites, patient reviews, and publicly available data on physician availability and specialty. It requires contacting the practices directly to inquire about their services, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health resources. It also necessitates evaluating the practice's commitment to patient education and its involvement in the community.

The overall Hypertension Score for a practice is a composite measure, reflecting the integration of all these factors. A high score indicates a practice that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive and accessible hypertension care. A low score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, or integrating mental health resources.

In conclusion, the ability to effectively manage hypertension in Elizabeth, WV (ZIP Code 26143) depends on the availability of primary care physicians, the practices they employ, and the resources available to patients. By considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and community resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. This detailed analysis allows for a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in delivering high-quality hypertension care in this rural community.

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