26201, Buckhannon, West Virginia Hypertension Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Hypertension Score in 26201, Buckhannon, West Virginia is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.60 percent of the residents in 26201 has some form of health insurance. 46.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.11 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 26201 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,006 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26201. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,962 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,949 health care providers accessible to residents in 26201, Buckhannon, West Virginia.

## Hypertension Score Analysis: Buckhannon, WV (ZIP Code 26201)

Analyzing the landscape of hypertension management within Buckhannon, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26201) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, their practices regarding hypertension management, the utilization of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score, though not a numerical value, will represent a qualitative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem concerning hypertension.

The core of effective hypertension control lies in accessible primary care. Buckhannon, a relatively small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: potential physician shortages and geographical limitations. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the population of Buckhannon is paramount. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) or the U.S. Census Bureau, in conjunction with physician directories, would be essential to determine this ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care, negatively impacting the Hypertension Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the operational efficiency and patient-centeredness of local practices significantly influence hypertension management. Identifying standout practices within Buckhannon requires a deeper dive. This involves examining factors such as: the availability of extended appointment hours, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for streamlined data management and medication reconciliation, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for hypertension treatment. Practices that proactively monitor patient blood pressure, offer patient education on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and facilitate regular follow-up appointments will likely score higher. Patient reviews, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in managing hypertension in a rural setting. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, medication management, and remote blood pressure monitoring. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine for hypertension management, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, would receive a positive assessment. Conversely, practices that lag behind in telemedicine adoption might be hindering access to care for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a critical factor influencing the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Hypertension and mental health are inextricably linked. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly contribute to elevated blood pressure and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed therapists), or have established referral pathways to mental health services, will be viewed favorably. This integrated approach recognizes the holistic needs of patients and improves the likelihood of successful hypertension control. The presence of support groups or educational programs addressing both hypertension and mental health would further enhance the Hypertension Score.

The analysis also needs to consider the availability of pharmacies and their role in hypertension management. Convenient access to pharmacies, particularly those offering medication adherence programs and pharmacist consultations, is essential. Practices that collaborate with local pharmacies to ensure medication compliance and provide patient education will contribute to a higher score. The presence of specialized pharmacies that cater to chronic disease management would be a significant advantage.

The assessment of practices must also consider the availability of diagnostic equipment. Access to accurate blood pressure monitoring devices, along with the ability to perform necessary laboratory tests, is fundamental. Practices that are well-equipped and have protocols for regular equipment calibration will contribute to a higher score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Buckhannon, WV (ZIP Code 26201) is contingent upon the combined strengths and weaknesses of the factors discussed above. A strong score would reflect a robust primary care infrastructure with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, patient-centered practices, active telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health resources, and strong partnerships with pharmacies. The practices would also be well-equipped and have protocols for regular equipment calibration. A weaker score would indicate potential shortages of PCPs, limited access to specialized care, slow telemedicine adoption, inadequate mental health integration, and potential barriers to medication adherence.

Data collection and analysis are critical. Gathering information from the WVDHHR, the U.S. Census Bureau, physician directories, and patient reviews would be necessary to create a comprehensive picture. Site visits, if feasible, could provide valuable firsthand insights into the practices and their operations. The findings would be presented in a detailed report, highlighting the strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within the local healthcare ecosystem. This report would serve as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve hypertension management in Buckhannon.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" analysis underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to hypertension management, encompassing primary care access, patient-centered practices, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and medication adherence. By understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within Buckhannon, WV (ZIP Code 26201), stakeholders can work collaboratively to improve the health and well-being of the community. To visualize these findings and understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and patient demographics, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.